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Record 81.8 Million Expected to Travel This Thanksgiving

11/26/2025

35 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Thanksgiving travel is projected to reach a record 81.8 million travelers, including 73 million by car.
Traffic congestion is expected to peak Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, plus Sunday evening.
In California, 9.6 million travelers will face delays on major routes such as I-5 and I-15.
Weather is favorable with no rain forecasted.
Authorities note 35% of Thanksgiving traffic fatalities from 2019 to 2023 involved drunk driving.

History

Historical Context

Thanksgiving travel in the U.S. has seen significant increases over the years, with 55 million Americans traveling in 2019. The trend towards road travel is evident, as 49 million traveled by car that year. However, the period also highlights ongoing public safety challenges, with 35% of Thanksgiving traffic fatalities from 2019 to 2023 linked to drunk driving, emphasizing the need for vigilance during holiday travel.

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Story summary

U.S. Thanksgiving travel is projected to reach a record 81.8 million travelers, including 73 million by car.
Traffic congestion is expected to peak Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, plus Sunday evening.
In California, 9.6 million travelers will face delays on major routes such as I-5 and I-15.
Weather is favorable with no rain forecasted.
Authorities note 35% of Thanksgiving traffic fatalities from 2019 to 2023 involved drunk driving.

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