Wild weather has been wreaking havoc in parts of Southern California, with heavy rain causing flash floods and leaving cars submerged in Santa Barbara. Aerial footage reveals the extent of the flood damage across Ventura County. As the storms move eastwards, millions of people in the Plains and the Rockies are bracing themselves for possible snowstorms, which bodes well for all the skiing enthusiasts out there.
However, these storms could also throw a wrench in the holiday travel plans of the tens of millions of people planning to fly or drive during this festive season. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates today to be one of the busiest days of the entire season, with a whopping 2.5 million flyers expected to be screened.
At Denver International Airport, travelers are experiencing long lines and major crowds. Even though passengers arrive at the airport with a sense of excitement, their moods seem to dampen once they reach the TSA security checkpoint. Being the third busiest airport in the world, security measures are stringent, and the TSA has offered some tips to help keep the lines moving smoothly.
If you're carrying gifts, consider placing them in gift bags or boxes with tissue paper. Wrapped presents are allowed, but be prepared for them to be unwrapped if they set off any alarms. While it's perfectly fine to bring baked holiday treats, syrups, preserves, and eggnog should be packed in your checked luggage. Furthermore, it's advisable to finish your beverages before joining the line. To stay updated on flight delays or other important information, it's recommended to check with your airline and download the my TSA app. Additionally, the TSA advises travelers to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time.
Amidst the holiday rush, we spoke to a mix of first-time and experienced travelers at the airport. Many expressed their love for flying, as it offers a unique perspective of being in the air. One first-time traveler shared his excitement about his inaugural flight and expressed his comfort with traveling by car. The festive spirit was evident among many passengers, with some even bringing wrapped gifts along. Despite the hustle and bustle, people maintained a positive attitude, trying to keep the holiday cheer alive.
As travelers navigate through this busy period, occasional delays are to be expected. Currently, the only trouble spot reported is in Albuquerque, where de-icing operations are causing some slowdowns. Passengers are advised to stay updated on any potential disruptions by monitoring the FAA website.
So, whether you're braving the stormy weather in Southern California or navigating through crowded airports, it's important to stay prepared, keep in touch with airline updates, and maintain a resilient spirit. Happy travels and happy holidays!
