July 4th travel faces massive storm disruptions: Expert tips for navigating the holiday rush
Storms slam the northeast: What travelers need to know
Thirty-nine million people from
Philadelphia
to Maine are at
risk
for severe weather, including damaging winds up to 60 mph and hail as large as one inch.
The worst of the storms is expected to hit Thursday afternoon and evening, coinciding with peak travel hours. New York City could see storms between 2 p.m. and 10 p.m., Philadelphia from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Boston from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m..
The
National Weather Service
warns of up to three inches of rain along the East Coast, raising the risk of flash flooding, especially in urban areas.
The FAA has issued ground stops and delays at major airports including Newark, LaGuardia, Boston, D.C., Philadelphia, and Orlando.
Newark
Liberty Airport alone reported delays of up to four hours, with disruptions expected into the early morning.
As of Thursday evening, five major airports reported about 600 flight cancellations and 1,900 delays, with LaGuardia alone seeing 180 cancellations and 400 delays.
Travel tips: How to beat the storms and the crowds
To help travelers navigate both the weather and the record crowds, experts recommend the following:
Check your flight status frequently: Airlines are updating schedules in real time due to weather. Sign up for alerts and monitor your airline's app for gate changes or cancellations.
Be flexible with your plans: If possible, leave earlier or later than peak hours to avoid the brunt of both storms and congestion. Early morning flights are less likely to be delayed by afternoon thunderstorms.
Prepare for long waits: Bring snacks, water, and portable chargers. With airport delays reaching up to four hours, comfort items can make a big difference.
Monitor weather alerts: Severe storms can develop quickly. Use weather apps or NOAA alerts to stay ahead of changing conditions, especially if driving through storm-prone areas.
Have a backup plan: If you're planning outdoor celebrations, consider indoor alternatives or rescheduling. Flash flooding and lightning are real risks during these storms.
Stay safe on the roads: If you encounter heavy rain or flooding, pull over safely and wait it out. Never drive through flooded roadways.
After Thursday's storms, 'optimal conditions' are forecast for the Northeast on July 4th itself, with sunny skies and pleasant temperatures in the 80s. However, travelers in Florida and the Carolinas should remain alert for a potential tropical system and more rain through the weekend.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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