Temperatures will plummet in Kentucky this weekend. Here’s what travelers should know.
If you’re heading to a Thanksgiving gathering in the next few days, be sure to bring an extra layer.
Temperatures will drop into the 20s on Thursday night, and they’ll reach a low of 17 degrees Fahrenheit on Friday night, according to the National Weather Service.
Rain is expected to hit the city late Wednesday and continue into Thanksgiving Day, but snow should hold off until at least Saturday night. Louisville has the same forecast.
WKYT Chief Meteorologist Chris Bailey said some snow flurries may hit across the state on Thanksgiving night and continue to Friday morning, but he said those showers shouldn’t disrupt any travel.
If you’re traveling this weekend, be sure to check the forecast before you set out on the road. Here’s a recap of some popular regional destinations:
Charlotte, NC: The National Weather Service warns of an “unseasonably cold” air mass moving into the city, keeping temperatures chilly with highs in the low 40s, and lows in the high teens. Severe thunderstorms are also predicted between Thanksgiving and early next week, with the possibility of an isolated tornado.
Knoxville, TN: Temperatures will be slightly more welcoming in Knoxville, with a weekend high of 57 degrees on Thanksgiving, and a low of 23 degrees on Friday night. Some rain is expected on Thanksgiving, but snow should hold off until early Saturday morning.
Nashville, TN: Nashville will also hit its weekend low on Friday night, sitting at 23 degrees. The high won’t reach as far as Knoxville, sitting at a chill 49 degrees on Thanksgiving Day.
Columbus, OH: Up to the north, the weather looks similar to Lexington. Bundle up for lows in the teens and highs in the 40s. Thanksgiving precipitation is more likely, with a 30% chance of snow and 20% chance of rain.
Indianapolis, IN: If you’re heading to Indianapolis, beware of the wind. Single-digit wind chills will hit the city between Thanksgiving and early next week. Rain and snow will hit late Wednesday and continue to early Thursday, but there is a possibility of that precipitation impacting travel, according to the National Weather Service.
Travel tips for the busiest time of the year
The busiest travel days of the year are the Wednesday before and the Sunday after Thanksgiving. More than 132 million people are expected to travel this year, according to the American Red Cross. Here are some tips to stay safe and make your trip a bit easier:
Dress for the weather: Always be prepared for the worst. With cold fronts moving in over the weekend, temperatures are going to drop. Make sure you have enough layers that you can withstand the cold if your car breaks down.
Buckle up: More people on the road means a higher chance of collisions. Always wear your seat belt, and don’t drive distracted.
Consider a carry-on: If you’re flying this weekend, consider packing light and only taking a carry-on. That could save you a pretty penny, avoiding the cost of checking your bags.
Factor in traffic: With so many people on the road, and the added lines in airports and train stations, you’re bound to add a bit of time to your arrival. Plan to leave earlier than you usually would, so you’re not rushed on your way to your plans.