The Old Farmer’s Almanac has unveiled its Thanksgiving 2025 weather outlook, revealing a nation split by temperature extremes — snow flurries up North and warm sunshine across the South. From New England’s frosty mornings to Texas’ balmy afternoons, here’s the full regional forecast and travel guide for November 23–30, 2025.
Contents
- 1 Thanksgiving 2025 Forecast: A Weather Divide Across America
- 2 Regional Thanksgiving Weather Outlook (Nov 23–30, 2025)
- 3 Spotlight: The Southwest’s Slice of Sunshine
- 4 Travel Outlook: Smooth in the South, Slower Up North
- 5 Will it Snow on Thanksgiving Day?
- 6 How the Almanac Makes Its Forecast?
- 7 Reporter’s Take: America’s Thanksgiving Weather Split
- 8 FAQs: Thanksgiving 2025 Weather Forecast
Thanksgiving 2025 Forecast: A Weather Divide Across America
The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts one of the most regionally diverse Thanksgiving weather patterns in recent memory. As Americans gear up for one of the busiest travel weeks of the year, conditions will vary dramatically depending on which direction you’re heading.
- The North and West can expect cold winds, rain, and even some snow.
- The South and Southeast will enjoy mild sunshine ideal for outdoor gatherings.
“If you’re traveling north, pack a coat. If you’re heading south, sunscreen might be the smarter move,” joked Sarah Green, senior meteorologist at the Almanac.
Regional Thanksgiving Weather Outlook (Nov 23–30, 2025)
| Region | Expected Conditions | Travel Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | Cold, windy, chance of snow in higher elevations | Moderate – possible flight delays |
| Midwest | Cool with scattered rain or flurries | Mixed – watch for slick roads |
| West (Pacific NW, Rockies) | Chilly, wet, snow in mountains | Caution – slower road travel |
| South & Southeast | Mild, sunny, dry | Excellent – smooth travel |
| Southwest | Warm days, cool nights, mostly dry | Excellent – ideal for road trips |
Spotlight: The Southwest’s Slice of Sunshine
The Southwest—covering Arizona, New Mexico, southern Nevada, and West Texas—emerges as 2025’s Thanksgiving sweet spot. The Almanac expects clear skies and highs in the 60s–70s°F, with crisp, breezy evenings perfect for outdoor meals and desert sunsets.
| Subregion | Temperature Range | Conditions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern California & Arizona | 65–75°F days, 45°F nights | Sunny, dry | Ideal for travel |
| New Mexico | 60–70°F days, 40°F nights | Clear, breezy | Jacket recommended |
| West Texas | 65°F days, 50°F nights | Mostly sunny | Minimal rain expected |
| Southern Nevada | 60–70°F days | Calm, clear | Excellent for outdoor plans |
“The Southwest continues to defy the national chill,” said NOAA analyst Maria Torres. “Warm, dry air from the Pacific ridge keeps the region beautifully stable through late November.”
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Travel Outlook: Smooth in the South, Slower Up North
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Thanksgiving remains the busiest travel week of the year, with nearly 55 million Americans hitting the road or skies.
If you’re driving between regions, prepare for sharp contrasts.
- A road trip from Denver to Dallas could start in frosty air and end in T-shirt weather.
- Flyers heading through Chicago, New York, or Seattle should plan for possible weather-related delays.
“Early departures are the safest bet,” advises TravelNow expert Benjamin Hale. “By Thanksgiving weekend, northern airports may see rain-snow systems developing.”
Will it Snow on Thanksgiving Day?
Some—yes, but not much.
The Almanac anticipates light snow or flurries across:
- The Rockies,
- Northern Great Lakes, and
- Parts of New England.
Most metro areas, however, should remain clear but chilly. The southern tier—from Florida to southern California—is expected to stay frost-free, with pleasant parade mornings and outdoor dining weather.
| City | Expected Thanksgiving High (°F) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Boston | 45°F | Cloudy, chance of flurries |
| Chicago | 42°F | Cool, breezy |
| Dallas | 74°F | Sunny |
| Atlanta | 64°F | Mild, dry |
| Phoenix | 73°F | Clear skies |
| Seattle | 48°F | Showers likely |
How the Almanac Makes Its Forecast?
Published since 1792, the Old Farmer’s Almanac uses a blend of solar cycles, historical patterns, and modern meteorological models to make long-range predictions. It claims about 80% accuracy, though experts stress that local NOAA forecasts provide more precise short-term data.
“The Almanac is best for general planning—whether you’ll need a sweater or sunscreen,” said Dr. Alan Pierce, atmospheric scientist at Boston University.
For real-time updates, the NOAA Climate Prediction Center and National Weather Service will release short-term advisories closer to the holiday week.
Reporter’s Take: America’s Thanksgiving Weather Split
Thanksgiving 2025 is shaping up as a climate contrast in motion—a frosty West and a sunlit South.
From snowy mountain drives to backyard barbecues, the holiday’s weather diversity might be the most memorable part of the season.
“It’s the perfect metaphor for America right now—diverse, unpredictable, and a little divided,” the reporter quipped. “But whether you’re shoveling snow or sipping iced tea, there’s comfort in knowing Thanksgiving traditions remain the same.”
FAQs: Thanksgiving 2025 Weather Forecast
Which regions will be coldest?
The Pacific Northwest, Rockies, and Northern New England will be the coldest, with snow possible in mountain zones.
Will it snow on Thanksgiving Day?
Light snow or flurries could fall in northern regions, though no major snowstorms are predicted.
How’s the Southwest looking?
Expect warm, sunny, and dry weather — ideal for road trips and outdoor celebrations.
How accurate is the Old Farmer’s Almanac?
It claims about 80% accuracy, but travelers should rely on NOAA forecasts for short-term updates.
Should travelers expect delays?
Yes — particularly in northern hubs like Chicago, New York, and Seattle. Southern airports (Dallas, Phoenix, Atlanta) should operate smoothly.