As families prepare for Thanksgiving celebrations, portions of the Southeastern U.S. are on alert for a line of strong to severe storms expected to move across the region.
The National Weather Service NWS Southern Region has issued a marginal risk advisory for areas including Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia.
“Isolated to scattered strong to severe storms are expected today into Thanksgiving! Make sure to have multiple ways to receive warnings,” the NWS advised in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “Maybe bring along a NOAA weather radio along with that pie for Thanksgiving to keep everyone informed!”
The storms are expected to usher in a significant drop in temperatures, with some areas in northwest Florida facing near-freezing conditions.
According to the NWS Climate Prediction Center, a polar cold front could lead to double-digit temperature declines across Florida, with the potential for a hard freeze. Central Florida may see a dramatic 40-degree temperature drop as the front settles in.
The Climate Prediction Center also urged residents and travelers to prepare for the abrupt cold. “Please protect susceptible vegetation, and if you are traveling south, bring your jackets,” the center tweeted earlier this week.
While the Southeast contends with storms and temperature swings, the Western U.S. is bracing for heavy snow and winter weather. Colorado, in particular, is expecting up to 36 inches of snow in some areas. Several roads in the state have already been closed due to hazardous conditions.
This Thanksgiving, residents across the country are reminded to stay weather-aware and take necessary precautions, from keeping warm to ensuring safety during severe weather.