Memorial Day weekend, often heralded as the “unofficial start to summer,” is swiftly approaching, and millions of Americans are preparing for travel and outdoor activities. With AAA predicting 2024 to have the second highest travel forecast since 2000, approximately 44 million travelers will venture 50 miles or more from home, marking a 4% increase from 2023.
Weather conditions, however, are expected to be somewhat of a mixed bag. Some regions may experience sweltering heat and dry conditions, while others may face damp weather and storms.
The weather forecasters are predicting a mix of weather conditions, with some regions experiencing sweltering heat and dry conditions, while others face damp weather and storms. The Plains and Southern states have already been experiencing warmer-than-average temperatures, along with wet and stormy conditions. In contrast, the Southwest has been experiencing dry conditions. As temperatures continue to rise to summer levels, an active storm pattern is expected to persist through the end of the month.
AccuWeather meteorologists warn of multiple weather features bringing showers and disruptive thunderstorms across the Central and Eastern states. Senior Meteorologist Renee Duff notes, “Storm-fatigued residents across the middle of the nation will not catch a break during the extended holiday weekend. While each day will not be a washout everywhere, and some locations will be fortunate enough to miss thunderstorm activity Saturday through Monday, there will be areas that get doused on more than one occasion across the Plains states.”
AAA predicts a bustling travel season ahead, with travel times potentially higher than typical years for both roadway and airline travelers. Experts advise planning ahead to avoid congestion and delays. Thunderstorms in the Central Plains to the East Coast can cause heavy rain, difficult travel, and localized flooding, with hail and strong winds possible. Duff advises, “AccuWeather’s exclusive MinuteCast® tool can be utilized by those with outdoor plans to help determine when rain will arrive at their exact location. However, be mindful that thunderstorms can blossom with little to no notice, and as soon as you see dark, billowing clouds or hear a rumble of thunder, seek shelter indoors.”
