Millions will head to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, but a storm system and lingering floods could make voting a wet and chilly affair in large parts of the country.
Key points
- A storm system will bring rain and thunderstorms to central U.S. cities on Election Day, potentially impacting voter turnout.
- Florida’s recent flooding has forced the relocation of 19 polling locations across seven counties.
- Cool morning temperatures are expected in the Northwest, Rockies and northern Upper Midwest, with warming expected by afternoon.
According to Weather.com, a broad storm system is set to sweep across the central United States on Election Day, bringing showers and thunderstorms to major metro areas such as Chicago, Minneapolis, Kansas City and Houston. Voters in those regions should be prepared for rain‑soaked streets and possible localized flooding.
In Florida, recent heavy rains have already produced more than a foot of precipitation in several counties. State officials, citing reports from CNN.com, have moved 19 polling locations across Brevard, Highlands, Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties to avoid flood‑affected sites. Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in response to the prolonged flooding.
Central U.S. Faces Showers and Thunderstorms
Temperatures are expected to be on the cooler side from the Northwest through the Rockies and the far northern Upper Midwest. Weather.com notes that highs will start low in the morning but should rebound to more comfortable levels by the afternoon, easing the chill for voters heading out later in the day.
Polling places across most states will be open from early morning until the early evening, giving voters a window to cast their ballots despite the weather challenges. All 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are up for election, alongside Senate races in 35 states and gubernatorial contests in 36 states.
Florida Flooding Triggers Polling Site Relocations
Voters are encouraged to check local forecasts and any updates from election officials before heading out, especially in areas where severe weather or flooding could affect access to polling sites.
Reader questions
Will the thunderstorms affect voting hours in the central U.S.?
Weather.com reports that polls will remain open as scheduled, but voters should allow extra travel time and stay informed about any local road closures.
Which Florida counties have moved polling locations due to flooding?
Polling sites have been moved in Brevard, Highlands, Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties, according to reports cited by Weather.com.
What temperature range can voters expect in the Northwest on Election Day?
Morning temperatures are expected to be chilly, with a gradual rise to more comfortable levels by the afternoon, as noted by Weather.com.
Source: weather.com
