URGENT UPDATE: The holiday travel rush is in full swing in the Chicago area as travelers head out for the New Year. TSA anticipates a record-setting year for travel, with passenger volumes expected to surge nearly 6% compared to last year’s figures.
As of 10 a.m. today, O’Hare International Airport reported 28 cancellations, primarily due to adverse weather conditions. ABC7 meteorologist Jaisol Martinez noted that fog has significantly impacted visibility, creating challenges for travelers this morning. Despite these issues, many passengers reported smooth travel experiences as they prepare for their journeys.
Among the travelers, Dave Kelley expressed relief while heading back to Florida after spending Christmas with family in Chicago. “Not too bad, no one’s yelling or anything like that. It’s fairly early, so everyone’s pretty chill,” said Kosi Ogbuli, another traveler navigating the busy airport.
The rush is expected to continue, with the busiest travel day at O’Hare having already peaked on December 20. However, Midway International Airport anticipates its highest volume on December 27, as families return home from holiday festivities. Nationwide, the TSA predicts that the heaviest travel day will occur on Sunday.
Drivers planning to hit the roads should prepare for heavy traffic, particularly between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. today, according to AAA. As travelers navigate through challenging conditions, officials encourage everyone to stay updated on flight statuses and traffic reports.
With travel disruptions affecting many, the urgency for clear communication and preparedness has never been higher. Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.
