US Weather This Weekend: Warm Temperatures in the East

As Americans gear up for the final weekend before Christmas on December 20-21, 2025, a stark contrast in weather patterns will dominate the nation. Following an early-month Arctic blast that brought bitter cold and snow to much of the central and eastern U.S., a significant warm-up is underway, delivering unseasonably high temperatures across the Plains, Midwest, South, and parts of the East. Meanwhile, the West Coast braces for heavy rainfall from an incoming atmospheric river, with potential flash flooding in California. Here’s your comprehensive USA weekend weather forecast to help with holiday preparations and travel plans.

National Overview

Much of the contiguous U.S. will experience above-average temperatures this weekend, with anomalies of 20-30 degrees in the interior West, Plains, and extending eastward. Record warmth is possible in the Southwest and Texas, where highs could reach the 80s. Dry conditions prevail in most areas east of the Rockies, offering favorable travel weather. The primary concern remains on the Pacific Coast, where an atmospheric river will bring persistent rain, raising flood risks in Northern California.

Regional Breakdown

West Coast (California, Oregon, Washington)

• An atmospheric river targets Northern and Central California, delivering rounds of heavy precipitation.
• Marginal to slight risks of excessive rainfall and flash flooding are forecast, particularly from Saturday into Sunday.
• Expect wet and windy conditions in cities like San Francisco, Sacramento, and Portland – travelers should monitor for road impacts and potential delays.

Southwest (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas)

• Exceptionally warm and sunny skies dominate.
• Highs in the 70s to low 80s, with some areas potentially setting daily records – ideal for outdoor activities but watch for dry conditions elevating fire risk in some spots.

Plains and Midwest

• Unseasonably mild with mostly dry weather.
• Highs climbing into the 50s and 60s, a sharp departure from recent cold snaps – excellent for pre-holiday travel from cities like Chicago to Dallas as any lingering snow continues to melt.

Northeast and Mid-Atlantic

• Milder than recent weeks, though cooler than farther west.
• Highs in the 40s to low 50s, with mostly dry conditions – a few isolated showers possible but no major disruptions expected.

Southeast

• Warm and pleasant throughout.
• Highs in the 60s to 70s across Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas – perfect for weekend outings or early holiday gatherings.

Travel Tips for the Weekend

Overall, this weekend features mostly cooperative weather for cross-country travel, with the best conditions in the central and eastern U.S. The West Coast, however, may see disruptions from rain and potential flooding on key routes. Airlines and highways in California could face delays – check updates frequently.

For the latest alerts, consult the National Weather Service (NWS) and NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center.