One of the busiest travel times of the year was underway at airports across South Florida ahead of the Christmas holiday, just as a dangerous and disruptive winter storm was pushing through the nation.
Officials at Miami International Airport said Thursday and Friday were expected to be two of the busiest days of the year with travelers heading to their holiday destinations.
This year, the rush is increased with people attempting to get home ahead of the storm that's bringing blizzard-like conditions to parts of the country.
“A strong winter storm will form on this front with blizzard conditions,” the National Weather Service said, according to NBC News.
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Snowfall could exceed a foot in the Great Lakes region, the NWS said in a bulletin, adding that “wind gusts of over 50 mph will result in near-zero visibility and considerable blowing and drifting of snow.”
"It's just been a really hectic day and flights are delayed with a few cancellations," said Zakiyya Lewis, a traveler from Indianapolis, on Wednesday.
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Officials expect 2.5 million travelers to make their way through Miami International Airport in the month of December. On Wednesday, 87% of arrivals and 82% of departures made it on time from MIA. A total of 97 flights were delayed and three flights were canceled.
As of Thursday evening, 90 flights were delayed and 10 were canceled in Miami while 19 flights were delayed and seven flights were canceled and 231 delayed at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
Airport officials are urging travelers to check with their airline ahead of possible delays and cancellations as some are waving rebooking fees.
Millions across the country are expected to be affected by the severe weather with a high likelihood of travel chaos and possible power outages, forecasters warned.
