Severe California Storm Disrupts Peak Holiday Travel
A powerful atmospheric river storm is currently wreaking havoc in California, right in the midst of the peak holiday travel season. This severe weather has led to massive disruptions for airlines and hotels throughout the state.
Major airports such as Los Angeles International, San Francisco International, and San Diego International have been hit hard, resulting in hundreds of flight cancellations and delays.
Major carriers, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, are grappling with widespread delays. The storm has brought historic rainfall, flooding, and mudslides to Southern California, causing significant challenges for these airlines. For instance, Los Angeles International Airport reported 284 delays and 4 cancellations in a single day. Similarly, San Francisco International Airport experienced hundreds of delays, primarily due to strong crosswinds and reduced visibility.
The hospitality industry is also feeling the storm’s impact. Luxury hotels such as the Four Seasons Los Angeles and Fairmont San Francisco are reporting full bookings as stranded travelers scramble for accommodations. Hotel prices have surged dramatically as demand outpaces supply, leading to a surge in last-minute emergency bookings across Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.
California ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada mountains, including Lake Tahoe, are also facing operational challenges due to staff shortages. Employees are struggling to reach work amid the hazardous conditions, leading to delays in check-in and other services at many hotels.
Travel experts recommend that tourists heading to California take the following precautions:
- Book hotels in advance
- Confirm reservations before departure
- Monitor airline apps for real-time flight updates
Popular beach destinations like Venice Beach and Santa Monica have experienced flooding, with strong winds creating hazardous surf conditions.
Source: Travel and Tour World