Flight delays and cancellations across Texas as storms cause travel disruptions

Severe weather in Texas on Thursday led to significant disruptions in holiday travel, with thunderstorms causing widespread flight delays and cancellations across the state. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport reported nearly 90 flight delays and over two dozen cancellations early in the day. Similar disruptions occurred at Dallas Love Field and George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, according to data from aviation tracking company FlightAware.

The storms were predicted by the National Weather Service, which issued warnings for severe weather including high winds, hail, and the possibility of tornadoes. The areas most at risk extended east of Dallas, covering regions from Houston to southern Arkansas and parts of northern and western Louisiana.

Brian Hurley, a meteorologist at the Weather Prediction Center, stated that while tornadoes were a possibility, the primary threats were strong winds and hail. He noted that wind gusts could reach between 60 to 80 mph (96 to 128 kph), and hail could be one inch (2.5 centimeters) in diameter or larger.

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The storms moved into southern Arkansas and parts of Louisiana after dark, intensifying the risks for travelers. Hurley explained that the reduced visibility at night combined with the likelihood that people would be less aware of the weather posed further dangers. Nighttime storms are often more perilous due to the lack of daylight for people to see approaching weather conditions, making it crucial for travelers to stay informed.

These powerful storms not only caused chaos for holiday travelers but also posed significant risks to residents in the affected areas. With the weather expected to continue impacting regions of Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana, the severe conditions underlined the importance of being prepared and aware, especially when traveling at night. The disruptions served as a reminder of how volatile weather can be during the holiday season, affecting both flight schedules and the safety of those on the move.