A Look at Today's Election Day Forecast

news image
Special Stories
3 Nov 2020 6:00 AM
Today is Election Day (Tuesday, November 3rd) across the nation with millions of voters headed to the polls. High pressure will control the weather over most of the nation, leading to tranquil weather conditions. The Northwest and and Northeast will have some precipitation, while most areas from the West to South will be dry.

NORTHEAST

Lingering snow showers and chilly temperatures will move across a few areas in the Northeast on the backside of a fast moving low pressure center. Precipitation amounts and coverage should be minimal.

SOUTH / SOUTHEAST

Dry high pressure will lead to tranquil weather conditions across the South and Southeast. Temperatures will be near average to above normal.

NORTH CENTRAL

Temperatures will be warming through the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and Ohio Valley. Dry weather conditions are expected for Election Day.

NORTHWEST

A storm system will approach the Pacific Northwest, bringing areas of rain to the region and snow in the higher elevations. A surface trough ahead of a cold front will bring the first wave of moisture.

SOUTHWEST

High pressure centered near the Four Corners will bring dry and mild weather conditions to the Southwest. A few sprinkles or brief showers are possible in northern California. Does the weather affect elections? A 2007 study posted in the Journal of Politics regarding voter turnout states "political scientists have provided little systematic evidence to substantiate this claim". The study showed a small amount of voters chose to not vote in a few past presidential elections when unsettled weather was in the area. [Estimates of the number of potential voters who opted not to vote as a result of precipitation. From the Journal of Politics, August 2007] The study took a look at partisan bias and concluded "our results clearly indicate that Republican candidates benefit electorally from the turnout-depressing effects of bad weather", using the close presidential elections of 1960 and 2000 as examples. The study says "we have shown that bad weather may affect electoral outcomes by significantly decreasing Democratic presidential vote share, to the benefit of Republicans." In opposition, an article published in Bloomberg says "there’s not much evidence that rain on Election Day helps predicts the winner". Although it did state that "the weather may have clear impact on is the mood of voters" commenting that "rain makes voters less willing to take risks, dampening enthusiasm for third-party candidates. It also darkens their mood." Don't forget to vote! To find your polling place, follow this link.
All Weather News
More
Rafael Is Now Post-Tropical

Rafael Is Now Post-Tropical

Rafael is now post-tropical with winds around

11 Nov 2024 3:00 AM
Atmospheric River Setup to Begin in Northwest

Atmospheric River Setup to Begin in Northwest

A parade of systems will keep the Northwest a

11 Nov 2024 3:00 AM
Historic November Snow Storm Ends in the Rockies

Historic November Snow Storm Ends in the Rockies

COLORADO— The record-breaking snowstorm event

10 Nov 2024 9:10 PM
Rafael Fuels Lingering Flood Risk in the South

Rafael Fuels Lingering Flood Risk in the South

Widespread flash flooding developed in Louisi

10 Nov 2024 9:00 PM
Severe Storms in Texas Continue Friday

Severe Storms in Texas Continue Friday

The threat of severe weather continues this F

9 Nov 2024 2:50 AM
Dangerous Santa Ana Winds Prompt Mandatory Evacuations

Dangerous Santa Ana Winds Prompt Mandatory Evacuations

VENTURA COUNTY, CA - The Mountain Fire has be

8 Nov 2024 5:30 PM
Record Warm Election Day in the Northeast

Record Warm Election Day in the Northeast

NORTHEAST - It's been a warm stretch of weath

6 Nov 2024 2:20 AM