The Old Farmer's Almanac has released its long-range outlook, detailing the thanksgiving day snow rain forecast 2026 for regions across the United States. Published on October 15 based on predictions for the upcoming year, the early look points to a varied holiday with snow, rain, and sunshine expected on Thursday, November 26.
Regional Thanksgiving 2026 Weather Forecast
Winter conditions will impact parts of the country for the holiday. Snow is anticipated on Thanksgiving Day in the Upper Midwest, where temperatures are expected to be chillier than normal. The Lower Lakes region—including cities like Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, and Buffalo—faces a mixture of rain and snow alongside a cool nip in the air, prompting warnings for travelers to allow extra time.
Alaska is also slated for wintry weather, with snow showers and colder conditions expected across most of the state, while the Panhandle should experience rain and milder temperatures. Additional snow could appear during Thanksgiving week in the Northeast, the Atlantic Corridor, and the Appalachians.
Rain and Mild Conditions in the East
Much of the Eastern United States will encounter wet weather. Rain is predicted across the Northeast and the Atlantic Corridor running from Boston to Washington, D.C., accompanied by mild temperatures. Further south, Florida and the Southeast anticipate warm temperatures alongside showers.
Meanwhile, the Heartland region, including St. Louis, Kansas City, and Omaha, should see cool conditions with rain. The Pacific Northwest is slated for mild temperatures accompanied by periods of heavy rainfall, and Hawaii may experience isolated showers.
Sunshine and Ideal Travel Conditions in the West
The most favorable weather conditions are projected for the West and parts of the South. Sunny skies and very warm temperatures are expected in the High Plains—including Denver, Billings, and Rapid City—creating what the Almanac describes as an ideal setup for holiday travel.
The Desert Southwest and the Pacific Southwest will also enjoy sunshine and warmth, though northern parts of the Pacific Southwest will lean cooler while southern zones remain warm. Texas and Oklahoma will see warmth as well, with sunny skies in the north and potential showers in southern Texas.
Because these predictions are long-range outlooks rather than short-term National Weather Service reports, conditions remain subject to change. Travelers are advised to monitor local updates as the holiday approaches.
Sources: SnowBrains, Carlisle Sentinel, El Paso Times.
