Wet weather impacting Thanksgiving plans for Salinas locals

A storm that hit the Central Coast Tuesday and Wednesday is putting a damper in some people's holiday travel plans.

Rain fell on and off in Salinas Wednesday night on the busiest travel days of the year. A record 55 million people are expected to travel for Thanksgiving this year.

Salinas residents told KION the weather combined with the Thanksgiving rush doubled their commutes.

But the wet weather didn’t stop people from flooding the Harden Ranch Plaza in Salinas for last minute thanksgiving shopping. Salinas local Rita Lawson went to Safeway before heading out to visit her nephew in the Sierras, who wan’t able to come out because of the weather. But they’re concerned about the drive during the storm.

“There’s lots of snow on the ground in the Sierra Mountains and it is very difficult for travelers this time of year, not just for us, but for everyone so hopefully we will make it there safely and we will all have a happy Thanksgiving,” Lawson said.

With snow in the Sierras, the Central Coast really doesn't seem to have it that bad.

The parking lot was packed Wednesday night with many people trying to get groceries with many shops closed for Thanksgiving tomorrow.

The roads are still slick with the rain so those who plan to drive should remain cautious and make sure to have headlights on.