Millions of Texans are preparing to travel this week, as Christmas is just days away and the weather is shaping up to be an extreme mix of heat, rain, and snow.
Heatwave Hits Texas and the South
For most of the lower 48 states, the forecast calls for a week that will be warmer than normal, with the possibility of record-high temperatures in Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. In addition, record-high low temperatures are expected for numerous nights in those same states, as well as in California, much of the Plains, the Midwest, and the Ohio River Valley. Texas, in particular, will see near-record highs late in the week, with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day temperatures projected to be 10 to 20 degrees above normal, falling comfortably into the 70s and 80s.
West Coast Storms Bring Heavy Rain and Mountain Snow
An active storm track in the Pacific Northwest and the West Coast is expected to deliver multiple rounds of heavy rain, gusty winds, and mountain snow. The forecast calls for several inches of rain across Northern California, Oregon, and Washington. In the Sierra Nevada, several feet of snow are possible, which could create hazardous travel conditions for motorists and hikers alike.
Northeast Faces Chance of White Christmas
The Northeast is poised for a quick burst of snow on Tuesday, a development that could boost the odds of a white Christmas for New York and most of New England. While the overall season remains warm, this short-lived snowfall could provide the much-desired holiday backdrop for residents and visitors in the region.
Forecast Highlights
- Texas: Christmas Eve and Day temperatures 10-20 °F above normal, 70s-80s.
- Arizona, Oklahoma, Arkansas: Possible record-high temperatures.
- California, Plains, Midwest, Ohio River Valley: Record-high low temperatures for many nights.
- Northern California, Oregon, Washington: Multiple inches of rain.
- Sierra Nevada: Several feet of snow.
- Northeast (Tuesday): Potential snow burst, white-Christmas possibility.
Travel Tips for the Holiday Season
Travelers heading to Texas should expect scorching temperatures, especially on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and should stay hydrated and limit outdoor exposure during peak heat. Those crossing the West Coast should be prepared for sudden rain showers and the possibility of deep snow in mountainous areas. In the Northeast, travelers may encounter a brief but potentially snowy spell that could delay flights and road travel.
Key Takeaways
- A warm, record-high week is set to hit Texas, with Christmas Day temperatures 10-20 °F above normal.
- The West Coast will face heavy rain and mountain snow, with several inches of rain in the north and several feet of snow in the Sierra Nevada.
- The Northeast could experience a sudden snow burst on Tuesday, raising the chance of a white Christmas for New York and New England.
As the holiday season approaches, residents and visitors across the country should stay informed about the evolving weather patterns and plan their trips accordingly to ensure safety and comfort.
