Dubuque Thanksgiving Weather: Cold and Snowy Travel Outlook

Holiday travel is always a mess, and I should know. Every year that my family and I prepare to trek down to Oskaloosa, whether it's for Thanksgiving or Christmas, we're usually met with at least one less than desirable day on the road. This year that seems to be the case for many Americans across the upper Midwest, as cold, rain, and yes snow will be making an appearance this Thanksgiving, before winter truly begins in earnest.

According to Midwest Weather on Facebook, if you're hitting the road from, say, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, or northern Illinois this week, here’s what you ought to know, and how you might want to prep.

What the weather’s doing

Starting Tuesday into Wednesday we’re watching a developing system over the northern Plains and Upper Midwest that’s likely to bring snow and blowing winds. This is especially the case across North Dakota, Minnesota, and even into northwestern Wisconsin. The key thing to watch is the transition: rain or mix turning to snow as colder air pushes in.

By Thanksgiving Day itself, the temps are expected to dive. Highs in many spots could be in the 30s (or lower) and with wind and possible snow bands you’ll want to bundle up and watch for freezing blow-across on roadways. Lake-effect snow downwind of the Great Lakes is also flagged as a concern for those heading northward. Additionally, bands of heavy snow with reduced visibility could pop up.

What this means for your travel

So what about that highway trip your family is planning? It’s still doable, but this year you’ll want to leave extra time.

• If you're traveling early (Tuesday or Wednesday), you might hit the first surge of snow and cold on the Plains and into Minnesota. Conditions could deteriorate quickly.
• On Thanksgiving itself, roads might be slick, especially in the morning. Even if your exact route doesn’t get snow per say, dropping temps could make wet roads icy.
• Friday and the weekend? The cold air will be entrenched (below) and another system is likely to swing through. Unfortunately, that means the home-ward leg, or shopping with the relatives, might be less forgiving.
• For flying? This isn’t just a drive issue. Major hubs in the Midwest could see delays from both the weather and the volume of people.

What you can do

• Check your route now and look at state DOT updates regularly (road conditions, plow activity, etc.).
• Give yourself more time than usual. Please leave early if you can, no sense rushing into the worst of the weather.
• Pack for delays: blankets, snacks, water, phone charger, maybe a portable shovel or ice scraper if you’re driving a snowy route.
• If flying, watch your airline’s updates, especially for early-morning flights around mid-week when things may begin to get delayed or jammed up.
• Stay flexible. If you see that heavy band of snow is lining up right where you’re headed, maybe adjust your departure or pick a safer route.
• It may be an unpopular opinion, but not going is also viable if it's just not safe out.

For much of Iowa, it's shouldn't be too bad, so timing will be key. Those heading North, however, travel won’t be the smoothest this holiday, but with a little extra prep, you can still make it to your destination without major drama. Plan for snow, chill, maybe some ice, and give yourself a time cushion. Safe travels and a happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.