If you’re planning a Thanksgiving trip to Mississippi, you’ll want to know what kind of weather to expect. Most years, you can count on mild afternoons in the 60s and cooler nights in the 40s, with only a small chance of freezing temperatures.
Rain can happen, but heavy storms don’t show up as often as they do in the summer. Late November usually feels pretty comfortable for spending time outside.
But, honestly, it depends on where you go. The Gulf Coast tends to stay a little warmer, while up north it can get chilly once the sun goes down.
This range makes it smart to think about both your daytime plans and evening gatherings when you’re packing or putting together a schedule.
Knowing these patterns helps you get ready for family events, outdoor traditions, and travel across the state. Regional differences, seasonal influences, and past climate trends all shape the Thanksgiving weather you can expect in Mississippi.
Typical Thanksgiving Weather in Mississippi
Late November in Mississippi usually brings mild conditions. You’ll get comfortable daytime highs, cooler nights, and a mix of sun and clouds.
Rain does show up, but heavy storms aren’t as common as they are in spring or summer. Humidity drops off compared to those sticky summer months.
Average Temperatures in Late November
Thanksgiving lands right in the shift from fall to early winter in Mississippi. Daytime highs average from the upper 50s to mid-60s °F (15–19 °C), and nighttime lows often fall into the 40s °F (4–9 °C).
The Gulf Coast, with places like Biloxi and Gulfport, stays a bit warmer than northern spots like Tupelo. Central Mississippi, such as Jackson, usually sits right in the middle.
Short cold snaps can pop up, but they don’t stick around long. Snow is extremely rare in November—most years, it just doesn’t happen.
You’ll probably want a light jacket in the mornings and evenings, but afternoons usually feel nice enough for being outside.
Precipitation and Rainfall Patterns
Mississippi has a humid subtropical climate, so rain spreads out through the year. In late November, you’ll see about 3–4 inches of rain for the month, with some of that falling during Thanksgiving week.
Rain usually falls as light to moderate showers, not long storms. Thunderstorms can still roll through, but they’re less frequent than in spring or summer.
The Gulf Coast gets a bit more rain than the north, but it’s not a huge difference. If you’re planning to be outside, it’s smart to check the forecast and have a backup plan just in case.
Humidity Levels During Thanksgiving
Humidity drops off a lot compared to summer. Mornings start with relative humidity around 80–85%, but that falls to about 50–60% by afternoon.
This drop makes it feel way more comfortable outside, especially with cooler temps. You won’t run into the heavy, muggy air that sticks around in the summer.
Coastal spots like Biloxi stay a bit more humid, thanks to the Gulf of Mexico. Still, the air feels mild and manageable for most people, so outdoor holiday events are much easier to enjoy.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine
By late November, days get shorter. You’ll have about 10 hours of daylight on average, with sunrise around 6:30–7:00 a.m. and sunset close to 5:00 p.m.
Clouds show up pretty often, but you’ll still get a mix of sunny and partly cloudy days. Sunshine averages about 5 hours per day at this time of year.
Shorter days mean you’ll want to plan outdoor stuff earlier in the afternoon. Even so, the combination of mild temps and some sunshine makes Thanksgiving one of the nicer times to be outdoors in Mississippi.
Regional Weather Variations Across Mississippi
Thanksgiving weather in Mississippi shifts depending on where you are. Temperatures, rain, and humidity vary between the northern hills, the Gulf Coast, the Delta, and river towns.
This creates different conditions for travel and outdoor plans.
Weather Differences Between Northern and Southern Mississippi
In northern Mississippi, late November often feels cooler than elsewhere. Highs usually stay near the mid-50s °F, and lows can drop into the upper 30s °F.
You might spot some frost in the mornings, especially up near the Tennessee border.
Southern Mississippi runs warmer. Highs reach the low to mid-60s °F, with lows in the 40s °F.
Frost doesn’t show up as much, and the air feels milder outside.
Rainfall stays pretty even across the state, but the north sometimes gets longer cold fronts. If you drive south from Tupelo to Hattiesburg, you’ll notice the temperature and humidity slowly climbing.
Coastal Conditions: Biloxi and Gulfport
Biloxi and Gulfport sit right on the Gulf of Mexico, which keeps late November temperatures a bit steadier. Highs usually stick in the mid-60s °F, with lows around 50 °F.
Winds off the water can make evenings feel cooler, even if the thermometer says it’s mild.
Humidity stays higher here than inland. Light showers can pop up, but heavy storms are rare compared to summer.
The Gulf helps cut down on early-season frost, so holiday travelers often find the coast more comfortable for being outside.
Beachfront areas can get breezy, especially near the barrier islands. If you’re walking along the shore, expect stronger winds than you’d get just a few miles inland.
Mississippi Delta and River Areas
The Mississippi Delta, running from Greenville to Clarksdale, brings cooler nights than the coast but warmer days than the northern hills. Highs land in the upper 50s °F to low 60s °F, and lows in the upper 30s °F to low 40s °F.
The flat land lets cold air settle quickly at night. Morning fog is common along the Mississippi River, which can make early travel tricky.
Rain is moderate, but the Delta’s fields can get muddy even after light showers. If you’re visiting farming areas, expect some soggy ground this time of year.
Weather in Natchez and Vicksburg
Natchez and Vicksburg sit on the Mississippi River and blend inland and river weather. Highs in late November often reach the lower 60s °F, and lows drop into the low 40s °F.
The river valley holds onto moisture, so you’ll run into foggy mornings and hazy afternoons, especially near the bluffs.
Rain chances are moderate, but summer storms are way more intense. Travelers often find these towns milder than the north, but not as humid as the Gulf Coast.
The region feels pretty pleasant for walking tours and outdoor sightseeing during the holiday week.
Influences on Mississippi’s Thanksgiving Climate
Mississippi’s late November weather really comes down to location, climate, and seasonal change. Warm Gulf air, leftover summer heat, and the approach of winter all mix together to set the scene for Thanksgiving.
Impact of the Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf of Mexico shapes Mississippi’s November climate in a big way. Moist air from the Gulf moves inland, keeping things milder than states farther north.
This keeps long cold spells from settling in, especially down south in places like Biloxi.
Humidity sticks around, but it’s not as bad as summer. You might notice damp mornings and the occasional fog near the coast.
Storm systems can form more easily with that Gulf moisture, bringing scattered rain.
Typical effects of Gulf influence in late November:
- Warmer nights compared to inland states
- Higher humidity near the coast
- Greater chance of light rain or thunderstorms
If you’re heading to the coast, expect it to be a little warmer and wetter than up north.
Role of the Humid Subtropical Climate
Mississippi sits in a humid subtropical zone. You get long, hot summers and short, mild winters.
Around Thanksgiving, the state sits right between those two seasons.
Rain falls pretty evenly throughout the year, so November brings its share of precipitation. You can expect 3 to 5 inches of rain on average, depending on where you are.
Snow hardly ever shows up, but northern cities like Tupelo might catch a light flurry once in a while.
The climate brings wide temperature swings. For example:
- Jackson: highs near 68°F, lows around 47°F
- Biloxi: highs near 70°F, lows around 54°F
- Tupelo: highs near 64°F, lows around 44°F
This setup means Thanksgiving in Mississippi is usually comfortable, but you should still be ready for rain.
Transition From Hot Summers to Mild Winters
By late November, Mississippi has left behind the peak summer heat but hasn’t reached its coldest stretch yet. Afternoons feel mild—great for outdoor gatherings.
Nights can get crisp, especially in the north.
This seasonal shift brings a lot of variability. Some years, you’ll get warm, sunny days near 75°F. Other years, chilly fronts drop temps into the 40s.
Coastal areas stay the most stable, while inland spots swing more.
Thanksgiving weather in Mississippi can feel unpredictable. One year you’re outside in short sleeves, the next you’re bundled up and dodging rain.
Rainfall, Thunderstorms, and Weather Events
Late November in Mississippi often brings unsettled weather. Rain shows up often, thunderstorms can still develop, and once in a while, winter weather sneaks in.
Warm Gulf air and cooler northern systems mix things up, so conditions can change fast.
Likelihood of Rain and Storms in Late November
Most Thanksgiving weeks in Mississippi bring some measurable rain. Average rainfall for November ranges from 4 to 5 inches in much of the state, and a chunk of that often falls in the last week.
Moisture from the Gulf remains a big influence. Cold fronts sweep through and lift that humid air, which leads to widespread showers.
Light to moderate rain is most common, though heavier downpours can happen.
If you’re traveling, be ready for wet roads and lower visibility. Rain tends to last a few hours at a time, usually tied to fronts rather than quick showers.
This makes outdoor planning a little more challenging than in drier months.
Thunderstorm Frequency and Intensity
Thunderstorms can still pop up in late November, but not as often as in spring or summer. When Gulf warmth and cold fronts meet, you might see strong storms.
You could get isolated thunderstorms with gusty winds and lightning. Severe storms are less likely, but they’re not out of the question.
Mississippi has seen late-season outbreaks, including tornadoes, though it’s rare at this time of year.
Storms usually form along cold fronts. They can bring brief heavy rain, small hail, and strong wind gusts.
Most storms move through quickly, so they don’t usually stick around long enough to ruin a whole day.
Winter Weather Risks and Rare Events
Winter weather almost never shows up in Mississippi during Thanksgiving week, but it’s not impossible. The state’s southern spot and Gulf influence keep temps above freezing most years.
Every so often, a strong Arctic blast reaches the area. When that happens, you might see sleet, freezing rain, or light snow, especially up north.
These events are rare and don’t last long.
Historic cold snaps, like the late November 1950 outbreak, prove that extreme weather can happen. Even then, Mississippi only saw light snow compared to the Midwest or Appalachians.
Still, icy roads can make travel tricky if temps dip below freezing.
Outdoor Activities and Travel Considerations
Thanksgiving in Mississippi usually brings mild days and cooler evenings. Rain is possible, so it’s smart to balance outdoor traditions with the chance of wet weather.
Recommended Outdoor Activities
Late November brings all sorts of outdoor options. The weather usually stays mild, so you can hike trails in state parks like Tishomingo or Roosevelt without sweating buckets.
You’ll catch some pretty fall colors, especially earlier in the month, but even around Thanksgiving you might spot a few lingering leaves.
If water is more your thing, try the coast. Biloxi and Gulfport have beaches for walking or spots to fish. The Gulf Coast feels cooler now, but honestly, it’s way nicer than the summer heat.
Thanksgiving week draws out festivals and local events. Farmers’ markets, holiday parades, and small-town gatherings let you soak up Mississippi’s culture outside.
Picnics and family football games pop up everywhere. Parks and open fields make it easy to gather, but check the rain forecast before you haul out the cooler and football.
Travel Tips for Thanksgiving Week
Thanksgiving travel gets hectic, especially on highways like I-55 and I-20. If you’re driving between Jackson, Oxford, or the Gulf Coast, give yourself extra time. Traffic usually peaks the day before Thanksgiving and the weekend after.
Jackson and Gulfport airports fill up too. Book your flight early if you can, and show up at the airport with time to spare. No one likes a last-minute rush.
Weather sometimes messes with travel plans. Rain or storms slow down both cars and planes. Check forecasts often and stay flexible if things change.
If you want a rental or hotel, book it way ahead. Oxford and the coast fill up fast around Thanksgiving, so waiting isn’t your friend.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing and Packing Advice
Daytime temps usually hit the upper 60s, but evenings dip into the 40s or 50s. Bring layers so you can peel off or bundle up as needed.
A light jacket or sweater works for most outings. If you’ll be outside after dark, you’ll want a warmer coat.
November brings plenty of rain, so waterproof shoes and a small umbrella are smart. A rain jacket with a hood saves you if showers turn heavy.
For hiking or walking tours, grab comfortable shoes with good grip. Wet leaves and mud can get slick fast.
Heading to the coast? Pack a windbreaker. Gulf breezes sometimes make it feel colder than you’d expect.
Historical Weather Data and Trends
Mississippi’s Thanksgiving weather usually stays mild, but Gulf Coast moisture and inland cool air can mix things up. Some years bring rain, cold fronts, or even severe weather, so the holiday doesn’t always look the same.
Long-Term Thanksgiving Weather Patterns
Looking back over the decades, average highs around Thanksgiving run from the upper 50s °F in the north to the mid-60s °F along the Gulf Coast. Nights usually drop into the 30s and 40s °F. Mississippi lands in the cool-but-not-freezing zone compared to most states.
Rain shows up often enough to matter. About 30 to 40% of Thanksgivings in Mississippi bring measurable rain. Usually, it’s light or moderate, but sometimes Gulf systems dump heavier rain.
Snow almost never happens, though a few northern counties have seen rare flurries. Records only mention a handful of snowy Thanksgivings, and those are a big deal when they happen. Most years, you’ll get damp, cool air—nothing wintry.
Recent Notable Thanksgiving Weather Events
Some recent Thanksgivings have turned weird thanks to unusual conditions. One year brought a late-season severe weather outbreak, with thunderstorms and even a few tornadoes in central Mississippi. These moments remind us that late November can still surprise you.
Cold snaps sometimes make Thanksgiving stand out. In certain years, strong Arctic fronts slammed the state and dropped overnight temps into the 20s °F, making the holiday much colder than usual. Those sharp drops usually follow clear skies and a stiff breeze.
On the flip side, some Thanksgivings felt more like spring. Highs reached the 70s or even low 80s °F down south. Persistent winds off the Gulf kept things warm and humid, which isn’t what you’d expect for November, but it happens.
Comparing Thanksgiving Weather to Other Seasons
Thanksgiving weather in Mississippi sits right in that odd space between fall and winter. You’ll notice it’s usually about 10 to 15 degrees cooler than October, and the rain picks up as cold fronts start rolling in more often.
If you compare it to December or January, Thanksgiving feels a lot milder. Freezing temperatures don’t show up as much, and late November usually skips those long, harsh cold snaps.
When you’re thinking about outdoor plans, Thanksgiving weather can throw you a curveball more than spring or summer. Spring likes to bring its wild storms, and summer, well, it’s just hot and sticky. Thanksgiving sits somewhere in the middle, sometimes comfortable, sometimes a bit unpredictable, so it’s smart to keep your plans flexible.