Snow Impacts Post-Thanksgiving Travel
Snow Impacts Post-Thanksgiving Travel
With nearly fifty million people under winter weather alerts this weekend, travel conditions have been challenging, to say the least, with Chicago’s airports taking the brunt of the delays.
Chicago Airports Experience Delays
CHICAGO – One day after Chicago saw record-setting snowfall, Sunday was a much quieter and more routine day for travelers at Midway Airport as the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend nears its conclusion.
What we know:
It’s a far cry from 24 hours earlier when both of Chicago’s major airports saw some of the longest flight delays in the country.
One traveler at O’Hare on Saturday told Fox 32, “We’re heading to Reno, Nevada, and we’re delayed by three hours!”
Unusually Warm Thanksgiving Weekends
Complicating this year’s travel experience was the recent and unusually warm Thanksgiving weekends.
“Honestly, what’s making this kinda seem more unusual to a lot of people is the last couple of winters we’ve kinda been more on the mild side. December has been fairly dormant from a snow perspective,” said Zachary Yack with the National Weather Service.
Nationwide Flight Delays
According to a report from FLIGHTAWARE, by Sunday afternoon, there were well over 4,000 flight delays nationwide.
After a four-hour-long delay at O’Hare that didn’t guarantee her a trip home, BJ Dawson Chism made the decision to improve her chances, giving up her ticket, getting into a car, and heading to Midway.
“I was able to get on to a flight going home tonight because I need to be in Atlanta tomorrow,” she said.
Indiana Road Conditions
In Indiana, nearly two million people hit the road for the Thanksgiving holiday, traveling more than 50 miles to their destinations, and yet for hundreds of motorists, slick conditions proved too much, derailing their weekend plans.
“It’s really unfortunate that this weather comes on a very busy holiday, but that’s the hand we were dealt,” said Jordan Yaney with Indiana’s Department of Transportation.
AAA Expectations
Meanwhile, AAA expects more than 3 million people to travel by air on Monday, wrapping up the long holiday weekend, so we’re not done just yet.
The Source: This story contains reporting from Fox 32’s Scott Schneider.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the snow has significantly impacted post-Thanksgiving travel, with Chicago’s airports experiencing significant delays and Indiana’s road conditions proving hazardous for motorists. As the holiday weekend comes to a close, it’s essential for travelers to stay informed and plan accordingly to minimize disruptions to their travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many people are under winter weather alerts this weekend?
A: Nearly fifty million people are under winter weather alerts this weekend.
Q: Which airports were most affected by flight delays?
A: Chicago’s airports, including O’Hare and Midway, were among the most affected by flight delays.
Q: How many flight delays were reported nationwide?
A: According to FLIGHTAWARE, there were well over 4,000 flight delays reported nationwide by Sunday afternoon.
Q: How many people are expected to travel by air on Monday?
A: AAA expects more than 3 million people to travel by air on Monday, wrapping up the long holiday weekend.
