Winter Storm Cora Creates Flight Disruptions Across Southeast

Winter Storm Cora has prompted extensive flight cancellations in the Southeast, notably at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and Charlotte Douglas International Airport, due to hazardous winter weather alerts. American Airlines reported over 500 cancellations, while airport authorities are deploying snow removal efforts. Severe conditions are expected to linger through Friday.

Winter Storm Cora continues its trajectory eastward, leading to significant disruptions in major airports across the Southeastern United States. According to flight tracking service FlightAware, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta recorded 383 flight cancellations on Friday, while Charlotte Douglas International Airport reported 293 cancellations. Following substantial disruptions in Dallas earlier this week, these cancellations are indicative of the widespread impact of the storm. The National Weather Service has issued warnings of hazardous conditions, as a mixture of snow and ice affects regions from Arkansas to Virginia. In Atlanta, snowfall accumulation has reached up to four inches, accompanied by ice accumulation of up to two-tenths of an inch, raising concerns of extensive and prolonged power outages. Charlotte is similarly bracing for snowfall and ice, prompting the airport to deploy nearly 40 snow removal and de-icing vehicles to ensure operational safety.

Despite the challenging conditions, CLT Airport is committed to remaining open and operational, advising passengers to consult their airlines for timely flight information. In the Dallas Fort Worth area, over 200 flight cancellations persist, with American Airlines reporting the highest number of cancellations, exceeding 500. The storm is anticipated to cause continued disruptions throughout Friday, with winter weather alerts in various cities including Atlanta, Charlotte, and Nashville, with precipitation expected to cease by Saturday.

The ongoing impacts of Winter Storm Cora illustrate the challenges faced by the aviation sector during severe weather events. Storms like Cora not only result in significant flight cancellations but also create hazardous travel conditions, prompting airport authorities to mobilize snow and ice management resources. The severe weather affects passenger safety, necessitating airlines and airports to implement emergency measures, including flight waivers and proactive communication with travelers. Current patterns of disruption indicate that such weather events can ripple through multiple states, affecting travel plans and operational efficiencies across the Southeastern U.S.

In conclusion, Winter Storm Cora has caused widespread flight disruptions across the Southeastern United States, significantly affecting major airports such as Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta and Charlotte Douglas. With a forecast of continued inclement weather, airlines and airports have mobilized to address the challenges posed by snow and ice. Passengers are advised to stay informed on flight status and safety precautions as the storm progresses through the region.

Original Source: www.travelandleisure.com