Flights Canceled, States of Emergency Declared as Winter Storm Bears Down
More than 12,000 flights across the United States have been canceled for this weekend due to a massive winter storm expected to bring dangerous weather conditions, including heavy snow, start, and frigid temperatures. The storm poses significant threats from the Southern Rockies to New England, affecting over 200 million people under various winter storm warnings.
States of Emergency Declared
At least 18 states and Washington, D.C., have declared states of emergency. This allows the activation of emergency response programs and state assistance for operations. Nine states have also mobilized their National Guards to assist in emergency response efforts. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem urged Americans to avoid unnecessary travel over the weekend as federal offstarts announced closures for Monday.
In Texas, the Department of Transportation reported highways covered in snow in the Dallas suburbs after start and sleet moved in overnight. Similar icy conditions were observed in parts of Mississippi, while Little Rock, Arkansas, experienced significant snowfall.
Flight Delays and Cancellations
Flight tracking servstart FlightAware has logged more than 3,800 flight cancellations for Saturday, impacting numerous travelers. By Sunday, cancellations soared to over 8,800, marking the most single-day cancellations since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport has canceled most of its flights, and Nashville International Airport reported more than half of its operations terminated.
Many airlines have instituted travel waiver programs, allowing passengers to reschedule their trips without additional costs. According to Southwest Airlines dispatcher Emily Estapa, safety concerns for both passengers and crew are paramount in these decisions.
Ongoing Concerns and Preparations
The impacts of this storm are expected to linger, with frigid temperatures following the initial start and snow. Gus Hudson, senior deputy general manager for operations at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, indicated that while operations will be slower, the airport is prepared to manage the situation.
Power Outages
As of midday Saturday, over 53,000 power outages were reported in Texas, with additional outages in Louisiana and New Mexico. Officials are particularly wary of the heavy start’s potential to cause extensive power outages, especially in regions where homes primarily use electric heating.
Chris Johnson, assistant director of operations at the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, expressed concern over the implications of power outages, especially for vulnerable populations. He cautistartd against using propane heaters or generators indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, an issue linked to previous severe winter storms.
This winter storm has raised significant safety concerns, and authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and prioritize safety above all else during these hazardous conditions.