More than 450,000 without power as ‘violent’ storms batter central US: Live updates

Severe storms across the central United States over Memorial Day Weekend have left more than 450,000 people without power and at least 15 people dead.

Golf-ball-sized hail, strong thunderstorms, destructive winds and tornados ripped across parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Indiana and Kentucky on Saturday evening – and more are expected to occur through Sunday.

Seven people, including two children, were killed in Cooke County, Texas, the county sheriff said in a statement.

“It’s just a trail of debris left. The devastation is pretty severe,” Sheriff Ray Sappington told the Associated Press.

At least five people have died in Arkansas, two in Oklahoma and one in Kentucky due to the storms – the latest severe weather to hit parts of the Midwest and Great Plains in a string of bad weather.

More storms are expected to hit the region throughout Sunday and move eastern through Memorial Day as a low-pressure system collides with extreme heat.

Key Points

• National Weather Service warns of more severe weather

• At least five people in Arkansas dead from severe weather

• Egg-sized hail threatens Oklahoma, Texas

• Two children among 7 killed in Texas

• Midwest facing hurricane-like conditions from storms: NWS

Louisville mayor confirms one death in Kentucky

Sunday 26 May 2024 23:15 , Ariana Baio

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg said in a post on X that one person died during the strong storms.

“Louisville, I’m sad to report we’ve had one fatality following the severe weather that just moved through the area and some structural damage reported. Please join me in holding this family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time — may their memory be a blessing,” he wrote.

Mr Greenberg warned residents of Louisville that more severe weather was expected Sunday night.

As of Sunday afternoon, more than 200,000 residents in Kentucky were without power.

National Weather Service warns of more severe weather

Sunday 26 May 2024 22:50 , Ariana Baio

The NWS Weather Prediction Center warned that the severe storms were shifting east and could bring heavy rain, thunderstorms or hail to parts of the Mid-Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee valleys on Monday.

Storms currently over the central Plains and Ohio Valley are expected “to grow upscale and merge into a larger complex”, according to the weather warnings, while expanding through parts of Missouri, Illinois, western Kentucky and other neighboring states.

Meanwhile, dangerous and “potentially record-breaking” heat will continue to beat down on parts of Texas, the Western Gulf and southern Florida.

Two children among 7 killed in Texas

Sunday 26 May 2024 22:20 , Ariana Baio

Multiple tornados ripped throughout Texas on Saturday evening with one plowing through Cooke County – approximately 50 miles north of Dallas – leaving seven people dead, including two children.

Cooke County Sheriff Ray Sappington confirmed that a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old were among those killed. The victims also included three family members who were found in a home near Valley View – a rural community close to the Oklahoma border.

“It’s just a trail of debris left. The devastation is pretty severe,” Mr Sappington said.

Five people in Arkansas dead

Sunday 26 May 2024 22:14 , Ariana Baio

At least five people died in Arkansas as a result of the storm – one person in Benton County, local authorities said in a press conference on Sunday, two people in Marion County, the sheriff’s department said, one person in Baxter County, the sheriff’s department said, and a 26-year-old woman who was found outside a home in Boone County, according to AP.

In a north Texas county, dazed residents sift through homes mangled by a tornado

Sunday 26 May 2024 22:05 , AP

The dazed residents of a remote north Texas county sifted through their mangled homes on Sunday after seven people there were killed when a tornado ripped through the region near the tiny community of Valley View.

Cooke County Sheriff Ray Sappington said there’s “just a trail of debris left” in the area bordering Oklahoma where the dead included two children, ages 2 and 5, in Valley View, a town where barely 800 people live. The bodies of three family members were found in one residence, the sheriff said.

Read more from the Associated Press:

In a north Texas county, dazed residents sift through homes mangled by a tornado

Great Plains states bracing for ‘violent’ tornadoes today

Saturday 25 May 2024 14:00 , Katie Hawkinson

“Violent” tornadoes with wind gusts exceeding 90 miles per hour are likely in Oklahoma and Kansas today, according to the National Weather Service. Softball-sized hail is also possible in the region.

Dangerous storms will hit much of the central US today, bringing the possibility of “very large hail, hurricane-force gusts, and strong tornadoes” throughout the region, the NWS forecasted on Friday.

ICYMI: Ocean heat and La Nina combo likely mean more Atlantic hurricanes this summer

Saturday 25 May 2024 13:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Get ready for one of the busiest Atlantic hurricane seasons on record, thanks to unprecedented ocean heat and a brewing La Nina, experts say.

With hurricane-like winds already brewing in the Midwest this holiday weekend, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming hurricane season:

Experts warn of record Atlantic hurricanes this summer – and they could come early

Where did Memorial Day start and why do Americans celebrate it?

Saturday 25 May 2024 12:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Memorial Day, which also marks the unofficial start to summer, is observed annually on the last Monday of May, with most Americans receiving the day off from work.

The nation commemorates the holiday with a service at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, with the president typically laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Read more about the holiday from The Independent’s Chelsea Ritschel:

Where did Memorial Day start and why do Americans celebrate it?

FORECAST: Severe storms in the central US to last through the holiday weekend

Saturday 25 May 2024 11:00 , Katie Hawkinson

ICYMI: Midwest facing hurricane-like conditions from storms this weekend

Saturday 25 May 2024 09:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The Midwest is bracing for storms that could bring “very large hail, hurricane-force gusts, and strong tornadoes” to the region, according to the National Weather Service.

These conditions come amid what is expected to be the busiest Memorial Day Weekend for travelers since 2005.

The NWS has also warned those celebrating outdoors or on the water to be aware of lightning and to check marine conditions before getting on a boat.

Watch out: Southern Texas to face dangerous heat this Memorial Day Weekend

Saturday 25 May 2024 07:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Corpus Christi and much of southern Texas will face excessive heat this weekend.

The heat index — that is, what the temperature feels like to people — could reach up to 118F.

“Take extra precautions when outside,” the National Weather Service advises. “Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

Extreme fire danger, excessive heat expected in several states this weekend

Saturday 25 May 2024 05:01 , Katie Hawkinson

Areas of several states, including Texas, New Mexico and Arizona are under red flag warnings for extreme fire danger this weekend.

These conditions are exacerbated by high winds, low humidity and ongoing drought conditions in the southwestern US, according to the National Weather Service.

On Thursday, the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a warning to celebrate Memorial Day responsibly — and a reminder that fireworks are banned on BLM-managed public lands.

Meanwhile, Corpus Christi and much of southern Texas will face excessive heat this weekend.

The heat index — that is, what the temperature feels like to people — could reach up to 118F.

“Take extra precautions when outside,” the National Weather Service advises. “Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

Be cautious: Extreme fire danger expected in several states this weekend

Saturday 25 May 2024 04:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Areas of several states, including Texas, New Mexico and Arizona are under red flag warnings for extreme fire danger this weekend.

These conditions are exacerbated by high winds, low humidity and ongoing drought conditions in the southwestern US, according to the National Weather Service.

On Thursday, the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a warning to celebrate Memorial Day responsibly — and a reminder that fireworks are banned on BLM-managed public lands.

Memorial Day travel could hit highest numbers since 2005

Saturday 25 May 2024 03:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts this weekend will bring the heaviest Memorial Day travel in nearly 20 years.

Some 43.8m people will likely travel at least 50 miles over the weekend, with most of them taking road trips, the AAA said, a 4 per cent increase from 2023. Most of those travellers will take a car to their destination, the AAA predicts.

Meanwhile, the Transportation Security Administration expects at least 3m people to pass through security checkpoints this weekend as airports brace for heavy traffic.

Storms could continue to impact air travel throughout the weekend.

43 per cent of flights at the Chicago O’Hare International Airport are delayed as of Friday afternoon, according to FlightAware. More than 500 flights have been delayed and 18 canceled since thunderstorms blew into the region this morning.

New York City’s LaGuardia Airport and John F Kennedy International Airport had almost 700 delays and 90 cancellations on Thursday after a severe storm hit the area.

ICYMI: Nearly half of all Chicago flights face delays

Saturday 25 May 2024 02:00 , Katie Hawkinson

43 per cent of flights at the Chicago O’Hare International Airport were delayed as of Friday afternoon, according to FlightAware. The average delay is roughly one hour, FlightAware reports.

More than 500 flights had been delayed and 18 canceled since thunderstorms blew into the region on Friday morning.

Memorial Day travelers going to the midwest or central US may also see their celebrations dampened as the National Weather Service forecasts dangerous thunderstorms with large hail and potential tornadoes.

ICYMI: Ocean heat and La Nina combo likely mean more Atlantic hurricanes this summer

Saturday 25 May 2024 01:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Get ready for one of the busiest Atlantic hurricane seasons on record, thanks to unprecedented ocean heat and a brewing La Nina, experts say.

With hurricane-like winds already brewing in the Midwest this holiday weekend, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming hurricane season:

Experts warn of record Atlantic hurricanes this summer – and they could come early

VIDEO: Memorial Day weekend travel ramps up

Saturday 25 May 2024 00:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Where did Memorial Day start and why do Americans celebrate it?

Friday 24 May 2024 23:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Memorial Day, which also marks the unofficial start to summer, is observed annually on the last Monday of May, with most Americans receiving the day off from work.

The nation commemorates the holiday with a service at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, with the president typically laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Read more about the holiday from The Independent’s Chelsea Ritschel:

Where did Memorial Day start and why do Americans celebrate it?

Nearly half of all Chicago flights face delays

Friday 24 May 2024 22:30 , Katie Hawkinson

43 per cent of flights at the Chicago O’Hare International Airport are delayed as of Friday afternoon, according to FlightAware.

More than 500 flights have been delayed and 18 canceled since thunderstorms blew into the region this morning.

Memorial Day travelers going to the midwest or central US may also see their celebrations dampened as the National Weather Service forecasts dangerous thunderstorms with large hail and potential tornadoes.

Be cautious: Extreme fire danger expected in several states this weekend

Friday 24 May 2024 22:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Areas of several states, including Texas, New Mexico and Arizona are under red flag warnings for extreme fire danger this weekend.

These conditions are exacerbated by high winds, low humidity and ongoing drought conditions in the southwestern US, according to the National Weather Service.

On Thursday, the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a warning to celebrate Memorial Day responsibly — and a reminder that fireworks are banned on BLM-managed public lands.

Popular Memorial Day destination to see strong storms, rip currents

Friday 24 May 2024 21:30 , Katie Hawkinson

Miami, Florida — a popular vacation destination for Memorial Day weekend — will see strong thunderstorms bringing the risk of rip currents off the southwestern coast, according to the National Weather Service

Those celebrating at the beachfront destination may also face a brutal heat index of 105F next week.

Chicago flights delayed by average of an hour as thunderstorms roll in

Friday 24 May 2024 20:59 , Katie Hawkinson

Flights at the Chicago O’Hare International Airport are on an average delay of one hour due to thunderstorms, according to FlightAware.

An estimated 50,000 people will be passing through airports today as Memorial Day weekend begins, according to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

‘Violent’ tornadoes possible in Oklahoma, Kansas

Friday 24 May 2024 20:30 , Katie Hawkinson

“Violent” tornadoes with wind gusts exceeding 90 miles per hour are likely in Oklahoma and Kansas on Saturday.

Softball-sized hail is also possible in the region.

ICYMI: Ocean heat and La Nina combo likely mean more Atlantic hurricanes this summer

Friday 24 May 2024 20:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Get ready for one of the busiest Atlantic hurricane seasons on record, thanks to unprecedented ocean heat and a brewing La Nina, experts say.

With hurricane-like winds already brewing in the Midwest this holiday weekend, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming hurricane season:

Experts warn of record Atlantic hurricanes this summer – and they could come early

Extreme fire danger, excessive heat expected in several states this weekend

Friday 24 May 2024 19:30 , Katie Hawkinson

Areas of several states, including Texas, New Mexico and Arizona are under red flag warnings for extreme fire danger this weekend.

These conditions are exacerbated by high winds, low humidity and ongoing drought conditions in the southwestern US, according to the National Weather Service.

On Thursday, the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a warning to celebrate Memorial Day responsibly — and a reminder that fireworks are banned on BLM-managed public lands.

Meanwhile, Corpus Christi and much of southern Texas will face excessive heat this weekend.

The heat index — that is, what the temperature feels like to people — could reach up to 118F.

“Take extra precautions when outside,” the National Weather Service advises. “Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

WATCH: Memorial Day weekend forecast for central US

Friday 24 May 2024 19:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Nearly 200 flights delayed in Chicago

Friday 24 May 2024 18:30 , Katie Hawkinson

Almost 200 flights into, out of or within the US at Chicago O’Hare International Airport have been delayed today, according to FlightAware.

Much of Illinois and Iowa are under severe thunderstorm and flood watches this afternoon.

Meanwhile, some 50,000 people will be passing through airports today as Memorial Day weekend begins, according to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

WATCH: US storm system to bring tornadoes, hail to Oklahoma as Memorial Day weekend kicks off

Friday 24 May 2024 18:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Chicago airport delays on the rise today

Friday 24 May 2024 17:20 , Katie Hawkinson

Chicago O’Hare International Airport has seen nearly 100 delays so far on Friday, according to FlightAware.

This uptick comes as severe thunderstorms hit much of Iowa and Illinois, bringing wind gusts up to 80 miles per hour, hail and tornadoes

O’Hare is the fourth busiest airport in the US, meaning today’s storms could continue to impact Memorial Day travel throughout the country.

Egg-sized hail threatens Oklahoma, Texas

Friday 24 May 2024 17:01 , Katie Hawkinson

The storms expected to hit Oklahoma and Texas today will bring two-inch hail — the size of a hen’s egg — to the region, the National Weather Service said.

Egg-sized hail can easily damage cars and homes.

The region will also see wind gusts of up to 70 miles per hour.

Meanwhile, hurricane-force winds and tornadoes could hit the central US this afternoon.

These weather hazards come on the second day of Memorial Day Weekend travel and could create delays at airports across the country.

Extreme fire danger expected in several states this weekend

Friday 24 May 2024 16:40 , Katie Hawkinson

Areas of several states, including Texas, New Mexico and Arizona are under red flag warnings for extreme fire danger this weekend.

These conditions are exacerbated by high winds, low humidity and ongoing drought conditions in the southwestern US, according to the National Weather Service.

On Thursday, the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a warning to celebrate Memorial Day responsibly — and a reminder that fireworks are banned on BLM-managed public lands.

Where did Memorial Day start and why do Americans celebrate it?

Friday 24 May 2024 16:20 , Katie Hawkinson

Memorial Day, which also marks the unofficial start to summer, is observed annually on the last Monday of May, with most Americans receiving the day off from work.

The nation commemorates the holiday with a service at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, with the president typically laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Read more about the holiday from The Independent’s Chelsea Ritschel:

Where did Memorial Day start and why do Americans celebrate it?

ICYMI: Ocean heat and La Nina combo likely mean more Atlantic hurricanes this summer

Friday 24 May 2024 16:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Get ready for one of the busiest Atlantic hurricane seasons on record, thanks to unprecedented ocean heat and a brewing La Nina, experts say.

With hurricane-like winds already brewing in the Midwest this holiday weekend, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming hurricane season:

Experts warn of record Atlantic hurricanes this summer – and they could come early

Chicago to see storms, ‘damaging hail’ until this evening

Friday 24 May 2024 15:40 , Katie Hawkinson

Thunderstorms bringing damaging hail and possible tornadoes will hit the Chicago region until this evening, the National Weather Service forecasts.

These storms could impact the fourth-busiest airport in the nation, Chicago O’Hare International.

However, the travel hub is going strong so far this morning with just one cancelation and 46 delays, according to FlightAware.

Southern Texas to face dangerous heat this Memorial Day Weekend

Friday 24 May 2024 15:20 , Katie Hawkinson

Corpus Christi and much of southern Texas will face excessive heat this weekend.

The heat index — that is, what the temperature feels like to people — could reach up to 118F.

“Take extra precautions when outside,” the National Weather Service advises. “Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

Midwest facing hurricane-like conditions from storms: NWS

Friday 24 May 2024 15:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The Midwest is bracing for storms that could bring “very large hail, hurricane-force gusts, and strong tornadoes” to the region, according to the National Weather Service.

These conditions come amid what is expected to be the busiest Memorial Day Weekend for travelers since 2005.

The NWS has also warned those celebrating outdoors or on the water to be aware of lightning and to check marine conditions before getting on a boat.

Memorial Day travel could hit highest numbers since 2005

Friday 24 May 2024 14:39 , Katie Hawkinson

The American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts this weekend will bring the heaviest Memorial Day travel in nearly 20 years.

Some 43.8m people will likely travel at least 50 miles over the weekend, with most of them taking road trips, the AAA said, a 4 per cent increase from 2023. Most of those travellers will take a car to their destination, the AAA predicts.

Meanwhile, the Transportation Security Administration expects at least 3m people to pass through security checkpoints this weekend as airports brace for heavy traffic.

Storms could continue to impact air travel throughout the weekend.

New York City’s LaGuardia Airport and John F Kennedy International Airport had almost 700 delays and 90 cancellations throughout Thursday after a severe storm hit the area.

Now, Chicago O’Hare International Airport could be impacted by severe thunderstorms in the region today.

Iowa, Illinois under severe thunderstorm watches

Friday 24 May 2024 14:27 , Katie Hawkinson

Eastern Iowa and northern Illinois — including Chicago — are under a severe thunderstorm watch on Friday.

These storms could bring wind gusts of up to 80 miles per hour, hail and tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service.

Conditions could impact service at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, the fourth busiest airport in the US, as millions continue traveling for the holiday weekend.

Popular Memorial Day destination to see strong storms, rip currents

Friday 24 May 2024 14:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Miami, Florida — a popular vacation destination for Memorial Day weekend — will see strong thunderstorms bringing the risk of rip currents off the southwestern coast, according to the National Weather Service

Those celebrating at the beachfront destination may also face a brutal heat index of over 100F next week.

ICYMI: North Carolina airport workers went on strike as travel kicked off

Friday 24 May 2024 13:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Charlotte Douglas International Airport workers went on strike Thursday as Memorial Day weekend travel began, local outlet WSOC TV reports.

The North Carolina airport is expecting a busy travel weekend. Airport officials predict that more than 400,000 passengers will originate from or connect at Charlotte Douglas International for their holiday travel.

Don’t plan on outdoor activities this weekend throughout much of US: NWS

Friday 24 May 2024 12:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The National Weather Service (NWS) said those celebrating Memorial Day on the East Coast should expect rain each day of the holiday weekend.

Meanwhile, those traveling to the Great Lakes region will be rained on this Sunday and Monday, the NWS forecasts.

If you’re still planning to be outdoors, the NWS previously encouraged people to stay diligent about lightning and dangerous marine conditions.

Check marine conditions before boating this weekend: NWS

Friday 24 May 2024 11:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The National Weather Service (NWS) is warning those celebrating Memorial Day on the water this weekend to check marine conditions before they embark.

“A LOT can change with the weather from the time you leave the shore to when you’re out on the open water,” the NWS wrote on X. “Know before you go!”

With severe thunderstorms expected in many parts of the country this weekend — including the Great Lakes region — marine conditions may become dangerous due to high winds and heavy rain.

ICYMI: Memorial Day travel expected to hit highest numbers since 2005

Friday 24 May 2024 09:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts this weekend will bring the heaviest Memorial Day travel in nearly 20 years.

Some 43.8m people will likely travel at least 50 miles over the weekend, with most of them taking road trips, the AAA said, a 4 per cent increase from 2023. Most of those travellers will take a car to their destination, the AAA predicts.

Meanwhile, the Transportation Security Administration expects at least 3m people to pass through security checkpoints this weekend as airports brace for heavy traffic.

The AAA says those driving on Friday should leave early in the day to avoid getting mixed in with people commuting to and from work.

Then, those returning home on Sunday or Monday should avoid driving in the afternoon if possible to stay out of the return rush.

WATCH: Memorial Day Weekend travel could break records

Friday 24 May 2024 07:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Memorial Day flight forecasts

Friday 24 May 2024 05:01 , Katie Hawkinson

Good news: The worst of the air travel congestion may be behind us this Memorial Day weekend.

Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg said Thursday was expected to be the busiest air travel day for the holiday.

Travel will be at its lowest point on Sunday.

Don’t plan on outdoor activities this weekend: NWS

Friday 24 May 2024 04:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The National Weather Service (NWS) said those celebrating Memorial Day on the East Coast should expect rain each day of the holiday weekend.

Meanwhile, those traveling to the Great Lakes region will be rained on this Sunday and Monday, the NWS forecasts.

If you’re still planning to be outdoors, the NWS previously encouraged people to stay diligent about lightning and dangerous marine conditions.

Where did Memorial Day start and why do Americans celebrate it?

Friday 24 May 2024 03:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Memorial Day, which also marks the unofficial start to summer, is observed annually on the last Monday of May, with most Americans receiving the day off from work.

The nation commemorates the holiday with a service at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, with the president typically laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Read more about the holiday from The Independent’s Chelsea Ritschel:

Where did Memorial Day start and why do Americans celebrate it?

Don’t plan on outdoor activities this weekend: NWS

Friday 24 May 2024 02:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The National Weather Service (NWS) said those celebrating Memorial Day on the East Coast should expect rain each day of the holiday weekend.

Meanwhile, those traveling to the Great Lakes region will be rained on this Sunday and Monday, the NWS forecasts.

If you’re still planning to be outdoors, the NWS previously encouraged people to stay diligent about lightning and dangerous marine conditions.

Popular Memorial Day destination to see strong storms, rip currents

Friday 24 May 2024 01:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Miami, Florida — a popular vacation destination for Memorial Day weekend — will see strong thunderstorms bringing the risk of rip currents off the southwestern coast today and tomorrow, according to the National Weather Service

Those celebrating at the beachfront destination may also face a brutal heat index of over 100F next week.

FORECAST: Thunderstorms threaten Interstate 95 as Memorial Day travel begins

Friday 24 May 2024 00:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Check marine conditions before boating this weekend: NWS

Thursday 23 May 2024 23:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The National Weather Service (NWS) is warning those celebrating Memorial Day on the water this weekend to check marine conditions before they embark.

“A LOT can change with the weather from the time you leave the shore to when you’re out on the open water,” the NWS wrote on X. “Know before you go!”

With severe thunderstorms expected in many parts of the country this weekend — including the Great Lakes region — marine conditions may become dangerous due to high winds and heavy rain.

Memorial Day travel expected to hit highest numbers since 2005

Thursday 23 May 2024 22:40 , Katie Hawkinson

The American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts this weekend will bring the heaviest Memorial Day travel in nearly 20 years.

Some 43.8m people will likely travel at least 50 miles over the weekend, with most of them taking road trips, the AAA said, a 4 per cent increase from 2023. Most of those travellers will take a car to their destination, the AAA predicts.

Meanwhile, the Transportation Security Administration expects at least 3m people to pass through security checkpoints this weekend as airports brace for heavy traffic.

The AAA says those driving on Thursday or Friday should leave early in the day to avoid getting mixed in with people commuting to and from work.

Then, those returning home on Sunday or Monday should avoid driving in the afternoon if possible to stay out of the return rush.

WATCH: Memorial Day Weekend travel could break records

Thursday 23 May 2024 22:20 , Katie Hawkinson

LaGuardia airport leads in delays on Thursday afternoon

Thursday 23 May 2024 22:00 , Katie Hawkinson

LaGuardia Airport in New York City is experiencing the highest number of delays in the US as of Thursday afternoon, according to FlightAware.

109 flights have been delayed and another nine canceled out of the New York airport as thunderstorms hit portions of the Interstate 95 corridor today.

Boston Logan International Airport in Massachusetts is at 68 delays and six cancellations on Thursday afternoon as well.

Meanwhile, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is trailing just behind LaGuardia as Texas braces for isolated severe storms and extreme heat, according to the National Weather Service.

WATCH: Thunderstorms threaten Interstate 95 as Memorial Day travel begins

Thursday 23 May 2024 21:40 , Katie Hawkinson