SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Following a cool, wet start to the month of November, seasonal temperatures, cold nights, and sunny skies have dominated since. This pattern, due to the presence of high-pressure overhead, will continue through at least the Thanksgiving holiday.
The continuation of this pattern means that travelers won't have to contend with the elements, although it is expected to be the third busiest Thanksgiving travel period since 2000, according to AAA.
AAA expects 6.3 million Californians to be traveling via car ahead of the holiday. Traffic will likely be heavy across the state's roadways, so INRIX recommends traveling early in the morning on Wednesday or before 11 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day and avoiding travel between 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Luckily for those hitting the road, mild temperatures and sunny skies will make for pleasant driving conditions. Temperatures in the mid to upper 60s are expected the next few days in the valley and upper 40s for the Sierra.
Although pleasant daytime conditions are expected, cold overnight temperatures will continue, especially through the Sierra. It is recommended to bring extra food, water, and blankets in case of emergency.
Airports are expected to be packed as well, especially on Wednesday. Officials recommend arriving 2-3 hours early to avoid the stress of missing a flight.
Although the week of Thanksgiving will be mild and low impact in terms of weather, a pattern shift is on tap for the state. Colder, wetter conditions will move in next week and will likely stick around through the first week of December.
For up to the minute roadway conditions, check out the Waze map below. Live traffic webcams can be found here and the Caltrans quick map here.
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