Potential Travel Delays in Northeast Due to Storms, Favorable Weather Expected for Labor Day Weekend Across Much of US

Potential Travel Delays in Northeast Due to Storms, Favorable Weather Expected for Labor Day Weekend Across Much of US

The Labor Day weekend weather forecast remains mostly optimistic, but some areas face a thunderstorm threat and potential travel disruptions.

As a line of showers and thunderstorms moves east from the Great Lakes into the Northeast, there may be a few severe storms with damaging winds and scattered hail this afternoon.

PHOTO: Tracking The Weather graphic

The most likely area for severe weather stretches from Binghamton, New York, to Charleston, West Virginia.

Most of the action looks to stay to the west of the I-95 corridor during the day, but a few cities such as Philadelphia and New York could see a leftover shower and thunderstorm overnight.

Although this will not be a widespread severe weather event, these showers could still cause some brief delays to airports or highways in the northeast later Saturday.

The Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast is also expected to face periods of rain throughout this holiday weekend.

PHOTO: wet weekend graphic

While unlikely to cause significant impacts, flooding is possible in southern Louisiana, where a Flood Watch remains in effect for the New Orleans area and the Mississippi River Delta. Houston may see a few scattered downpours this weekend as well, but most of the action will likely stay to their east.

It won’t be raining at every point this weekend, but waves of rainfall will be moving in off the Gulf periodically.

In terms of rain totals, 3 to 5 inches are expected along the coast of Louisiana and parts of the upper Texas coast over the next few days.

Fairgoers walk during a severe weather warning at the Minnesota State Fair, on Aug. 29, 2024, in Falcon Heights, Minnesota.

Kerem Yucel/AFP via Getty Images

Over in the Atlantic, action is beginning to ramp up in time for September, which is typically the most active month for storm activity in this region. The area of interest in the central Atlantic currently has a 50% chance of developing into a named storm over the next seven days.

Computer model projections are also showing this storm moving into the Caribbean Sea and strengthening into a tropical cyclone. However, the storm has a near zero likelihood of developing over the next two days, so holiday weekend plans remain safe.

PHOTO: Watching The Tropics graphic

This storm was also being followed by a tropical wave, but the National Hurricane Center has dropped its development to a 10% chance.

As summer comes to a close and Labor Day weekend approaches, many travelers are gearing up for one last getaway before the fall season begins. However, those planning to travel to the Northeast may encounter some potential delays due to storms in the region.

The National Weather Service has issued warnings for severe weather in the Northeast, including heavy rain, strong winds, and possible thunderstorms. These weather conditions could lead to flight cancellations, delays on highways, and disruptions in public transportation. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines, train companies, or bus services for any updates on their travel plans.

Despite the potential travel delays in the Northeast, much of the rest of the country is expected to experience favorable weather over Labor Day weekend. According to meteorologists, clear skies and mild temperatures are forecasted for many popular travel destinations across the US.

This means that travelers heading to places like the West Coast, the Midwest, or the Southeast can expect smooth sailing as they make their way to their holiday destinations. Whether you’re planning a beach getaway, a camping trip, or a city escape, the weather looks to be on your side for a relaxing and enjoyable Labor Day weekend.

For those who are still unsure about their travel plans due to the potential storms in the Northeast, it may be worth considering alternative routes or modes of transportation. Additionally, travelers should pack accordingly for any unexpected weather changes and stay informed about any updates from local authorities.

Overall, while there may be some travel delays in the Northeast due to storms, the majority of the US is set to enjoy favorable weather over Labor Day weekend. So whether you’re hitting the road, taking to the skies, or hopping on a train, be sure to plan ahead and stay safe as you embark on your final summer adventure.