Amanda CastroHannah Parry

By Amanda Castro and Hannah Parry

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Christmas travel is underway across the U.S., but winter storms are complicating plans for millions. From icy roads in the Northeast to heavy rain and mountain snow in California, travelers face delays and dangerous conditions on one of the busiest weeks of the year. More than 2,000 flights coming in or out of the U.S. have been delayed on Tuesday, with dozens more cancelled amid the storms.

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Dec 23, 2025 at 01:10 PM EST

AAA warns of holiday gridlock in major metros

AAA projects heavy congestion across several U.S. cities during peak holiday travel, with drivers facing significant delays compared to typical conditions.

Boston and Washington, D.C. top the list, with travel times more than doubling on key routes. Boston drivers heading north to Portsmouth via I‑95 could see trips stretch to over three hours on December 20, a 126% increase. In Washington, D.C., motorists traveling to Baltimore on the Baltimore–Washington Parkway that same day may face a 133% jump in travel time.

Other Major Delays:

Congestion spikes are expected nationwide, from Houston’s I‑45 corridor to Portland’s I‑84 stretch. San Francisco, Seattle, and San Diego also face extended travel times on December 23 and 26.

AAA advises travelers to plan around these peak periods, leave early in the day, and expect longer commutes on the busiest holiday routes.

Dec 23, 2025 at 01:03 PM EST

Flash flood warning issues amid ‘excessive rainfall’ across California

The National Weather Service (NWS) is warning of potential flash floods across California amid "excessive rainfall" this week.

"With a high risk of excessive rainfall issued across southern California on Wednesday, do you know what that means? Excessive Rainfall Outlook High Risk Days indicate potential for extreme impacts from flash flooding," the NWS said in a statement on X.

"These days correspond to about two out of every five flood-related fatalities and a significant majority of all flood-related property losses in the contiguous United States. It is important to keep up to date with the forecast if you live in this area."

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Dec 23, 2025 at 12:55 PM EST

Worst day to travel for the holidays revealed

More than 122 million people are expected to travel home for the holidays this year, according to the AAA.

The busiest day to fly is predicted to be December 28, followed by December 26.

“People need to have a plan B, at least an idea,” AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz told CBS News.

“Are you just gonna drive back home? Are you gonna postpone your trip?”

The AAA said travel this year is up by 2.3 percent on last year, with around half of the 122 million traveling, taking to the skie

Dec 23, 2025 at 12:55 PM EST

Unseasonable warmth to blanket central and eastern U.S. through Christmas

A surge of warm air will spread across much of the nation heading into Christmas, driving temperatures 15–30 degrees above average, Accuweather reports. Nearly two dozen states from the Rockies to the Appalachians are expected to experience record-breaking warmth, with cities such as St. Louis, Kansas City, Tulsa, Wichita, Albuquerque and Amarillo seeing highs more typical of late spring.

While the mild weather may feel welcome, it comes with travel challenges. Persistent low clouds and fog from the Gulf Coast through the Appalachians and Atlantic Coast could reduce visibility, disrupt road travel, and cause flight delays. The unusual warmth may make this one of the warmest Christmas holidays on record for several major cities.

Dec 23, 2025 at 12:52 PM EST

Gas prices drop to its lowest point of the year – just in time for holidays

The national average for unleaded gasoline fell to their lowest level this year at $2.85 a gallon - just in time for the holidays,

Prices have stayed below the $3 mark since December 2, making it the cheapest month for gas this year, and the cheapest December since 2020.

It fell its lowest level on Monday, with that figure inching up slightly to $2.86 a gallon Tuesday, but the national average is down more than 18 cents than it was at this time last year, and 21 cents from a month ago.

For individual states, Hawaii had the highest average of about $4.44 a gallon on Tuesday, per AAA, while Oklahoma had the lowest average at about $2.30 per gallon.

The lower price come as the cost of crude oil remain relatively low, with West Texas Intermediate remaining below the $60 per barrel mark for most of December.

Dec 23, 2025 at 12:39 PM EST

Best and worst times to hit the road this holiday season

Holiday road trips are a tradition for millions of Americans, but timing can make the difference between smooth sailing and hours stuck in traffic. Transportation data shows that congestion will peak on several key travel days, while Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day are expected to be the easiest times to drive.

Dec 23, 2025 at 12:24 PM EST

Traffic outlook: Christmas week busier than New Year’s

Transportation analytics firm INRIX warns that Christmas week will bring heavier traffic than New Year’s week.

The weekend before Christmas and Friday, December 26, are expected to be peak-congestion days as millions hit the road. While Christmas Day and New Year’s Day are typically lighter, weather and accidents could still cause delays.

Dec 23, 2025 at 12:09 PM EST

Warm weather tops AAA’s holiday destination list

AAA booking data shows warm-weather destinations dominate year-end travel. Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Honolulu lead the domestic rankings, while Cancun, Punta Cana, Puerto Rico, and Cozumel top the international rankings.

Other popular spots include Los Angeles, Hawaii, and Caribbean resort towns, with travelers also venturing to Rome, Sydney, and Costa Rica to ring in 2026.

Dec 23, 2025 at 11:54 AM EST

Moisture creates slippery sidewalks across Oklahoma and Texoma

Residents in Oklahoma and Texoma woke up to slick conditions Tuesday morning as an unusual weather setup left a thin layer of moisture on sidewalks and streets. According to the National Weather Service office in Norman, dewpoint temperatures rose above current soil temperatures, allowing condensation to form on surfaces even without rainfall.

This thin film of moisture can be deceptive, especially in areas that have been dry for several days. Officials warn that the dampness may make sidewalks and roadways slippery, posing a hazard to pedestrians and drivers alike.

The NWS urged caution during the morning commute, reminding residents that even minor changes in temperature and humidity can create unexpected hazards.

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Dec 23, 2025 at 11:39 AM EST

Georgia officials urge safe driving during holiday travel

Georgia State Patrol Troopers and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Officers are stepping up patrols across interstates and state routes during the Christmas and New Year’s travel periods, urging motorists to make safety their top priority.

The Christmas travel window runs from December 24 at 6 p.m. through December 28 at 11:59 p.m., while the New Year’s period begins December 31 at 6 p.m. and ends January 4, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Each spans 102 hours.

Colonel William W. Hitchens III, Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety, said officers remain committed to enforcing traffic laws and curbing unsafe driving behaviors. “Driving sober, staying alert, and obeying traffic laws are essential,” he said, warning that impaired drivers will be arrested.

Last year’s holiday periods saw a combined 10 fatalities and hundreds of crashes statewide. Officials are reminding drivers to plan ahead if celebrations involve alcohol, arrange sober rides, avoid distractions, and secure children properly in safety restraints.

AAA projects 109.5 million Americans will travel by car this holiday season, a 2% increase from last year. December also marks National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, underscoring the importance of vigilance on the roads during one of the busiest—and most dangerous—times of year.

Dec 23, 2025 at 11:25 AM EST

Record-breaking warmth to envelop central and southeastern U.S.

While storms batter the West and Northeast, much of the Central and Southeastern U.S. will experience unseasonable warmth.

Temperatures 15–30 degrees above average could break records in cities such as St. Louis, Kansas City, Tulsa and Albuquerque.

AccuWeather notes that persistent fog and low clouds may still disrupt travel, despite the springlike conditions.

Dec 23, 2025 at 11:12 AM EST

Northeast to see multiple storms with snow and ice

At least two storms will sweep the Northeast through Christmas, bringing a mix of rain, snow and ice. Early in the week, 1–3 inches of snow will fall across northern New York and New England, with up to 10 inches in the Adirondacks and Catskills.

A third storm arriving Christmas night could deliver plowable snow and ice from the Midwest to the Northeast.

AccuWeather’s Paul Pastelok warned of “travel nightmares” for families returning home after the holiday.

Dec 23, 2025 at 10:58 AM EST

Strong winds and coastal hazards threaten California

The storm system may intensify into a bomb cyclone offshore, producing wind gusts of 50–80 mph and up to 130 mph over mountain ridges.

AccuWeather warns of power outages, hazardous crosswinds for high-profile vehicles and large waves capable of overwashing Southern California beaches. Coastal residents and travelers should expect disruptions through Christmas.

Dec 23, 2025 at 10:43 AM EST

Sierra Nevada to see feet of snow, road closures

Snow levels will drop midweek as colder air arrives, leading to 1–2 feet at Donner Pass and up to 10 feet across Sierra ridges.

AccuWeather senior meteorologist Courtney Travis said whiteout conditions could shut down Interstate 80 and block access to mountain resorts during the holiday period. Travelers are urged to prepare for extended closures and dangerous situations.

Dec 23, 2025 at 10:29 AM EST

Northern California braces for saturated ground and flooding

After a brief lull, Northern California will see another round of heavy rain starting Tuesday night and continuing through Friday. With soils already saturated, AccuWeather warns of heightened risks of urban flooding, mudslides and debris flows.

Rainfall totals could reach 12 inches, with localized amounts up to 16 inches. The Sierra Nevada faces both valley flooding and heavy snow at higher elevations.

Dec 23, 2025 at 10:16 AM EST

Atmospheric river to drench California into Christmas

A powerful atmospheric river will soak California beginning Tuesday night and lasting through Christmas, bringing widespread flooding, damaging winds and several feet of Sierra Nevada snow.

The timing coincides with peak holiday travel, raising safety concerns statewide. Forecasters warn of flash flooding, mudslides and treacherous mountain passes as rain and snow intensify through the week.

Dec 23, 2025 at 10:00 AM EST

Southern California faces flood risk from heavy rain

Another atmospheric river will strike Southern California Tuesday night through Thursday, delivering 4–8 inches of rain in the Los Angeles Basin and up to 12 inches in the Transverse Ranges.

AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham cautioned that families near wildfire burn scars should prepare for evacuations due to the risk of sudden debris flows. Local StormMax™ rainfall totals could reach 16 inches.

Dec 23, 2025 at 09:47 AM EST

Winter storm targets Northeast with heavy snow in Maine

A winter storm is sweeping across the Northeast early this week, bringing light snowfall to parts of New York on Tuesday but saving its heaviest punch for higher elevations north of I-95 and coastal Maine.

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Dec 23, 2025 at 09:32 AM EST

Christmas travelers warned of airport security gift restrictions

Thousands of people heading abroad for Christmas are being reminded that festive cheer does not override airport security rules. Travelers have been urged to double-check their luggage, particularly when carrying presents, as certain items could be confiscated or cause delays at checkpoints.

Experts caution that wrapped gifts may need to be opened for inspection, while liquids over 100ml, snowglobes, gel candles, perfumes and bottles of alcohol must be packed in checked baggage. Party poppers, crackers and weapon-like toys are banned outright. Dairy products such as soft cheeses face import restrictions, and lithium batteries must be carried in hand luggage due to fire risks.

Even seemingly harmless items like biscuit or tea tins can trigger extra searches because metal disrupts x-ray scanners. Travel insurance may not cover missed flights caused by security delays, making preparation essential.

Industry specialists advise wrapping gifts at your destination or using gift bags, and avoiding festive outfits with metallic or flashing accessories that could prompt additional screening.

Dec 23, 2025 at 09:19 AM EST

Air travel surges past 8 million for the first time

AAA forecasts a record 8.03 million Americans will fly this holiday season domestically, surpassing 8 million for the first time. Airfare is up 7% compared to last year, averaging nearly $900 per round-trip ticket.

The busiest and most expensive travel days are just before Christmas and New Year’s, though flying on the holidays themselves can offer cheaper options.

Dec 23, 2025 at 09:06 AM EST

Worst airports to travel from this Christmas

Holiday travelers hoping for smooth journeys may face turbulence before even taking off. A new analysis from Saily shows that several major airports are especially prone to delays during the Christmas season, with East Coast hubs dominating the list.

The worst airports to travel from this holiday are:

Dec 23, 2025 at 08:53 AM EST

Holiday road travel to hit new highs

AAA estimates 109.5 million people will travel by car during the Christmas and New Year’s period, a 2 percent increase from last year. The weekend before Christmas and the day after, December 26, are expected to be the busiest on highways, according to traffic analytics firm INRIX.

By contrast, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day should be the quietest travel days, offering some relief for drivers. Adding to the good news, GasBuddy reports the national average price of gasoline has dropped to $2.79 per gallon as of December 22, easing costs for millions hitting the road.

Dec 23, 2025 at 08:40 AM EST

Record holiday crowds expected at airports

Travellers queue up at a check-in counter for Delta Airlines in Denver International Airport Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

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Air travel is set to reach historic levels this Christmas and New Year’s season, with AAA projecting 8.03 million passengers flying within the United States between December 20 and January 1. That marks a 2.3 percent increase from last year’s record.

Florida, Southern California and Hawaii top the list of holiday destinations, reflecting a strong demand for warm-weather getaways. United Airlines says December 27 will be its busiest day ever, while American Airlines is planning for four departures every minute during its holiday schedule.

The Transportation Security Administration anticipates its heaviest traffic on December 28, followed by December 27 and December 29, as travelers return from Christmas trips and head out for New Year’s celebrations.

Dec 23, 2025 at 08:27 AM EST

Old Farmer’s Almanac issues 2026 weather outlook across U.S. regions

The Old Farmer’s Almanac has released its annual long‑range forecast, offering a region‑by‑region look at expected weather trends across the United States from winter through fall.

In the Northeast, winter is projected to be milder than normal with below‑average snowfall, though early February could bring a burst of snow. Summer is expected to run hotter than usual, with wetter conditions in the north and drier weather in the south.

The Atlantic Corridor is forecast to see a warmer, drier winter, with snow most likely in early January and late February. Summer could be hotter and drier than average, with tropical storm risks in late June and mid‑August.

Across the Appalachians, colder and drier conditions are expected this winter, with snow chances peaking in late January and February. Summer should be cooler in the north and warmer in the south, with overall drier conditions.

The Southeast is predicted to have a colder, drier winter, with above‑normal snowfall in the east. Summer will trend hotter, with below-normal rainfall in the north and above-normal rainfall in the south.

In the Deep South, winter is expected to be warmer and drier, though late January and February could bring snow. Summer will be hotter than usual, with rainfall varying north to south.

The Texas‑Oklahoma region is forecast to see a warm, dry winter, followed by a hot, wetter summer. September and October could bring cooler conditions in the north and warmer weather in the south.

For the Lower Lakes, winter will be warmer with below‑normal precipitation. Summer is expected to be hotter with above‑normal rainfall, while fall trends cooler and drier. Meanwhile, the High Plains are predicted to have a warm, dry winter, with snow chances late in the season. Summer will be hotter and drier than average, with fall staying warm and dry.

In the Intermountain Region, winter will be warmer with mixed precipitation patterns. Summer is forecast to be cooler in the north but hotter and wetter in the south. The Pacific Northwest outlook calls for a warmer winter with below‑average snow, followed by a cooler, wetter fall.

Finally, the Pacific Southwest is expected to see a warmer, drier winter with below‑normal mountain snow. Summer will be hotter and drier, while fall turns cooler with wetter conditions in the north.

Dec 23, 2025 at 08:14 AM EST

Holiday travel faces weather disruptions coast to coast

Christmas travel is underway across the United States, but storms are expected to complicate plans on the roads and in the skies.

On Tuesday, light snow and freezing rain will spread across the Northeast, creating slippery conditions from Pennsylvania to New England. At the same time, a powerful Pacific storm will move into California, bringing heavy rain and strong winds that could extend into Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Flight delays are possible in Boston, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

By Christmas Eve, California will remain the focus, with flash flooding risks in the L.A. Basin and dangerous travel through the Sierra Nevada. Fog and low clouds could also slow flights in Chicago, Kansas City and Cincinnati.

Christmas Day brings another round of heavy rain and Sierra snow in California, while freezing rain may develop across parts of the Upper Midwest.

The day after Christmas, wintry precipitation is forecast to spread from the Great Lakes into the Northeast, threatening major hubs from New York to Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, mountain snow will continue in the Rockies and Cascades.

Conditions should ease somewhat Saturday, though lingering snow and ice in the Northeast and strong winds in the Northern Plains could still disrupt travel. By Sunday, a sweeping cold front will bring rain to much of the East and South, while lake‑effect snow creates dangerous driving in the Midwest.

Dec 23, 2025 at 08:01 AM EST

Storm forecasts highlight uncertainty as New Year weather shifts loom

Forecasting winter storms is far from exact science, FOX Weather Meteorologist Michael Estime told Newsweek. He compared the process to “predicting the path of a toddler in a toy store,” noting that while forecasters can anticipate general movement, conditions can shift suddenly. Estime said meteorologists rely on dozens of computer models to map possible outcomes, but prefer to emphasize impacts—such as when roads may become hazardous—rather than promising precise snowfall totals days in advance.

Looking ahead, Estime said the unusually warm Christmas weather won’t last. “Enjoy the May‑like Christmas while it lasts,” he said, adding that atmospheric patterns are expected to shift as the New Year approaches. The breakdown of the current warm ridge could allow more traditional winter storms to return.

Estime also pointed to a weak La Niña developing this season, which could make conditions more unpredictable. Typically, such a pattern pushes the jet stream northward, bringing colder temperatures and more frequent snow to the Pacific Northwest and Northern Tier, while leaving the southern United States warmer and drier than average.

Dec 23, 2025 at 07:48 AM EST

Alberta Clippers and low snow cover raise winter concerns

Alberta Clippers may sound small, but FOX Weather Meteorologist Michael Estime told Newsweek that they can pack a serious punch for holiday travelers. These fast‑moving systems typically drop just 1 to 3 inches of snow, yet their sudden blasts of arctic air and strong winds can turn minor accumulations into dangerous whiteouts. Roads can flash freeze within minutes, creating treacherous conditions for drivers heading to family gatherings.

Beyond immediate travel headaches, the lack of snow on the ground this season poses longer‑term risks.

"Snow acts like a giant mirror, reflecting sunlight back into space," said Estime. "With snow cover at historic lows, the bare ground absorbs all that sunshine instead, which warms up the air even more."

With historic lows across much of the country, bare ground is absorbing more heat, fueling warmer temperatures. The absence of stored frozen water also means less spring runoff, leaving soils dry and increasing the likelihood of drought. That dryness, in turn, raises the threat of wildfires as vegetation becomes more vulnerable.

Together, these factors highlight how even modest winter systems and reduced snowpack can have outsized impacts on both holiday travel and seasonal hazards.

Dec 23, 2025 at 07:35 AM EST

What to know about this Christmas warmth and California’s atmospheric rivers

An unusual burst of warmth is sweeping across the U.S. this holiday season, with some cities experiencing record‑breaking temperatures. FOX Weather Meteorologist Michael Estime told Newsweek that Tulsa, Oklahoma, is on track for its warmest Christmas in more than a century, dating back to 1922.

Estime explained that the heatwave is driven by a massive ridge in the jet stream, which is acting like a “giant warm air bubble” over the central United States. This pattern has kept typical winter cold bottled up far to the north, allowing temperatures to surge just in time for the holidays.

Meanwhile, California is contending with a very different weather phenomenon: atmospheric rivers. Estime described them as “a giant firehose in the sky,” narrow bands of moisture stretching thousands of miles from the Pacific into the West Coast. Often nicknamed the Pineapple Express when linked to Hawaii, these systems can transport staggering amounts of water vapor.

According to Estime, an average atmospheric river carries the equivalent flow of the Mississippi River, while stronger ones can deliver 7.5 to 15 times that amount. Exceptional events have even been measured at 25 times the Mississippi’s flow, fueling the heavy rains now soaking California.

Dec 23, 2025 at 07:26 AM EST

List of school closures in the Northeast

Families across the Northeast are navigating a mix of weather-related delays, scheduled holidays and structural changes in school districts this week.

On Tuesday, December 23, local outlets such as WCVB in Massachusetts, WMUR in New Hampshire and CBS Boston are reporting closures and delays tied to recent snowfall. Several schools in Massachusetts and New Hampshire shut down or adjusted schedules during the December 22 storm.

In New York City, schools are not closing for weather but are preparing for Winter Recess, which runs from December 24 through January 2. Official announcements are available through ABC7NY and NYC.gov.

Beyond immediate weather impacts, Boston plans to close several schools by 2030 due to declining enrollment, according to Boston.com.

Officials emphasize that closure information changes quickly, and parents should rely on district websites and local news stations for the most accurate, up-to-the-minute updates.

Dec 23, 2025 at 07:22 AM EST

How much rain is expected in SoCal today?

The National Weather Service is warning of significant rainfall across Southern California this week, with totals expected to climb as high as 12 inches in some mountain and foothill areas by Saturday, December 27.

Forecasts issued Sunday show widespread precipitation across the region. Los Angeles could see 7.5 inches, while nearby communities such as Covina, Santa Clarita and Thousand Oaks are projected to receive between 6 and 7 inches. Ojai is forecast to be among the hardest hit, with more than 11 inches possible. Coastal cities, including Long Beach, Oxnard, and Santa Barbara, are also bracing for 5 to 7 inches of rain.

Further south, NWS San Diego projects 2 to 4 inches for Orange County and the Inland Empire, with 3 to 5 inches in the Santa Ana Mountains and Riverside and San Diego County highlands. San Diego’s coastal and valley areas could see up to 3.5 inches by Christmas Day.

Flood watches are in effect beginning Tuesday, December 23, covering Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties through Christmas night. Additional watches extend to the Inland Empire, Coachella Valley, San Bernardino and Riverside County mountains, and San Diego County’s coastal, desert and mountain zones.

Dec 23, 2025 at 07:18 AM EST

How much snow will we get?

A snow‑focused forecasting site is highlighting where winter weather is piling up the fastest, offering real‑time predictions and comparisons for both commuters and skiers.

According to HowMuchWillitSnow.com, Mammoth Lakes, California, leads U.S. cities with more than 47 inches forecast, while South Lake Tahoe and Truckee are also bracing for double‑digit totals. At ski resorts, Kirkwood tops the list with more than 80 inches predicted, followed by June Mountain and Alpine Meadows.

The site also tracks how this season’s snowfall compares to historical averages. Cities in the Great Lakes region are seeing dramatic surpluses, with South Bend, Indiana, recording 339 percent of its seven‑year average and Muskegon, Michigan, at 304 percent. Ski areas in the Midwest are reporting similar spikes, including Mulligan’s Hollow Ski Bowl at 276 percent above average.

Developers say the platform was created to fill a gap in weather reporting, focusing on the single metric that matters most to travelers and outdoor enthusiasts: how much snow will be on the ground. Data is sourced primarily from the National Weather Service.

Dec 23, 2025 at 07:14 AM EST

Multiple storm alerts in place today: California

A potent storm system drenched Southern California over the weekend, prompting flood warnings, evacuation orders and widespread travel disruptions.

The National Weather Service reported several inches of rain across the region from Friday into Saturday, with the heaviest downpours hitting Los Angeles, Ventura and coastal counties. Downtown Los Angeles recorded 1.74 inches, while totals surpassed 2 inches in Malibu, Thousand Oaks and Dana Point.

Flash flood warnings were issued Saturday morning for parts of Los Angeles County, where rainfall rates reached an inch per hour. Advisories for burn scar areas and the San Fernando Valley remained in effect into the afternoon before expiring.

Authorities ordered evacuations in neighborhoods vulnerable to flooding and debris flows, though all orders were lifted by Saturday evening. Three emergency shelters were opened in Los Angeles County to assist displaced residents.

The storm also caused significant hazards. Topanga Canyon Boulevard and stretches of Pacific Coast Highway were closed due to flooding and debris. Mudslides were reported on the 101 Freeway near La Conchita, while sinkholes forced closures in South Pasadena. In Burbank alone, officials counted more than 50 downed trees. Power outages were reported in the Hollywood Hills after trees toppled onto utility poles.

Despite easing rainfall by late afternoon, forecasters warned of lingering thunderstorm chances that could bring sudden bursts of heavy rain. Officials urged caution as cleanup continued and additional storm phases were expected through the weekend.

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