- by foxnews
- 16 Mar 2025
Severe southwest winds reaching up to 50 mph are forcing widespread delays and cancellations for United, American, Air France, Iberia, All Nippon, Icelandair, Southwest, and other airlines at Chicago O̢۪Hare and airports across the US by making takeoffs, landings, and ground operations unsafe. These high winds are slowing down air traffic, causing diversions, and leading to cascading disruptions nationwide, with 764 flight delays and 48 cancellations at O̢۪Hare alone. The situation is worsening as strong winds increase fire risks, make driving hazardous for high-profile vehicles, and raise concerns about power outages. To add to the chaos, a wave of rain is expected to transition into wet snow overnight in northern Illinois, threatening further travel disruptions into Sunday.
A powerful wind system is bringing southwest winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 50 mph, affecting air and road travel across Illinois, Indiana, and other parts of the US. The high wind warning was canceled, but the Wind Advisory remains in effect, creating hazardous conditions for flights, ground transportation, and power infrastructure.
Several airlines are reporting significant disruptions, affecting both domestic and international travel.
With more than 700 delays and multiple cancellations, passengers are experiencing long wait times and uncertainty about their flights. Airlines are advising travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and to prepare for possible rebooking and extended layovers.
The severe winds are also affecting ground transportation. With gusts reaching 50 mph, driving conditions are becoming dangerous for high-profile vehicles such as trucks and RVs.
Key risks for drivers include:
Authorities are warning motorists to use extra caution, reduce speed, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind hours.
While winds are expected to gradually weaken tonight, another weather system is approaching, bringing:
The transition to accumulating wet snow in parts of northern Illinois could create slippery roads and additional travel disruptions on Sunday morning.
For those with upcoming travel plans, it is essential to:
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