A huge storm raging from Texas to Nova Scotia is raining down terror, and causing problems for countless holiday travelers. The storm offers a little bit of everything, from freezing rain, ice, and snow to flooding, thunderstorms, and possibly some tornadoes in the American South.
According to Fox News, some of the millions of people hitting the roads and airports Saturday squeaked through before any major weather hit. But as the afternoon wore on, cancellations and delays started to mount at major aviation hubs. Forecasters said roads that are passable one minute could become treacherous the next, as a cold blast on the back end of the storm turns rain to ice and snow.
This is a conundrum for travelers everywhere, as we are at the height of the Christmas travel season. Despite the storm, millions are still trying to get to their destinations, and are doing just about anything to get there.
“This is a particularly strong storm with very warm, near record-breaking temperatures in the East and very cold air in the Midwest, and that contrast is the sort of conditions that are favorable for not only winter weather but also tornadoes,” said National Weather Service meteorologist Ed Danaher in College Park, Maryland.
The worst of it will hit the Midwest population centers Saturday night, giving some travelers a window at the start of the holiday rush to get through airports and along highways with little disruption.
FlightAware.com reported that 350 flights had been cancelled nationwide, as of 5 pm EST. Most of the disruptions were affecting flights in and out of major hubs like O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, although the weather there was not yet nasty.
Since this is bad news for the almost 100 million Americans planning holiday travel, it is advised that you be very careful during your travels this holiday season.
If you are in a situation where you have to travel and have no choice, then be extra careful so you do get to your destination. Be safe out there!
Sources: Fox News | FlightAware.com