Holiday travelers setting out for what is expected to be one of the busiest weekends of the year are facing considerable disruptions as severe storms roll through parts of the Southern United States. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings for several regions, including Dallas, where residents are advised to take immediate precautions to avoid the impending danger.
According to reports, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed temporary ground stops at both Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field Airport, causing ripples of cancellations across the airline industry. By Thursday afternoon, the flight tracking website FlightAware indicated over 570 flights were either canceled or delayed, with most of these disruptions centered on the Dallas area.
The Storm Prediction Center is warning nearly 9 million people across Southeast Texas and parts of eastern Louisiana of the potential for tornadoes and severe storms. The area, which includes heavily populated cities like Houston, is currently experiencing heightened risks, with forecasters predicting several tornadoes and significant hail as the storm system strengthens.
"All modes of severe weather are on the table, including hail, flooding, high winds, and isolated tornadoes," AccuWeather meteorologist Gwen Fieweger explained, highlighting the severity of the situation as this severe weather front impacts holiday travel.
The NWS intensified its severe weather risk assessment for much of Southeast Texas from "Slight" to "Enhanced". This upgrade indicates increased likelihood of severe weather, including the possibility of EF2 tornadoes capable of causing severe damage. Notably, areas stretching from Central Texas to Louisiana are marked for strong storm activity as these adverse weather conditions roll across the states.
Currently, Dallas, Plano, and Garland are under flash flood warnings effective until at least 12:20 p.m. CST, with the NWS urging folks to "move immediately to higher ground" if they find themselves caught amid the storm.
Storms are expected to persist through the weekend, leading AccuWeather to predict continued risks associated with floods, hail, and tornadoes across the South. This storm series may even extend its reach, affecting celebrations along the East Coast as travelers make their way back home after the holidays.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), more than 119 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more during the year-end holiday period, representing historic travel numbers for this season. With nearly 8 million Americans flying, the combination of severe weather and increased travel is raising alarm bells about public safety and potential travel delays.
Instead of the usual smooth return from the holiday break, many travelers are adjusting their plans based on the weather forecasts. Severe thunderstorms could produce damaging winds gusting upwards of 70 mph, combined with hailstones approaching two inches. Travelers are urged to remain vigilant, follow safety precautions, and stay updated with the latest weather alerts as conditions evolve.
The Storm Prediction Center has indicated the severe storm threat will likely shift and intensify again on Saturday, warning of all modes of severe weather, which could exacerbate travel challenges across the region. Cities like Houston, Memphis, New Orleans, Birmingham, and Montgomery could see heightened threats as storms rapidly develop and move eastward.
Some meteorologists project another round of severe storms may develop overnight, bringing potential tornado activity and severe hail to vulnerable areas already impacted. Reports of possible EF2 tornadoes create serious concerns for communities. Residents are reminded to stay weather aware, particularly from the late morning through the peak evening hours when the risk for severe storms is most pronounced.
Despite the anticipations of severe weather, comfort and safety remain top priorities for many as they navigate the post-holiday rush. With experts advising on how to prepare, many are left weighing the necessity of travel against the risks of inclement weather.
The general travel environment across the Southern Plains remains tense. Travelers should remain aware of changing forecasts and re-evaluate plans as necessary to avoid dangerous weather situations. AccuWeather continues to provide updates to help inform and prepare potential travelers as conditions develop.
With all eyes on the upcoming storm system, the intersection of severe weather and holiday travel poses unique challenges for the millions on the move. Keeping families safe, monitoring the storm's progression, and staying informed are fundamental as Texas and the wider region prepare for potential severe summer storms.
