Winter storm in the Southern US disrupts Atlanta and Jacksonville Airports: What new updates for you to know?

A powerful winter storm has swept across the southern United States, causing significant disruptions in air travel, power supply, and road safety.

Major airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, have experienced substantial delays and cancellations, while residents face hazardous driving conditions and widespread power outages.

Air Travel Disruptions

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, one of the world's busiest airports, has been severely impacted by the storm. On Friday, all five runways were closed for over two hours due to heavy snowfall and icy conditions.

Delta Air Lines, the primary carrier at the airport, canceled approximately 700 flights across its network on Friday and warned of potential further schedule adjustments over the weekend.

By Saturday morning, a ground delay was implemented at Hartsfield-Jackson to manage traffic flow. Although flights have since resumed, the airport continues to experience disruptions.

As of Sunday morning, conditions have improved, with the main security checkpoint reporting a wait time of just 16 minutes, a significant drop from earlier chaos.

In Jacksonville, Florida, the storm's impact has been less severe, with only a few flight cancellations and delays reported. However, travelers are advised to check with airlines for the latest updates, as conditions can change rapidly.

Road Conditions and Safety Concerns

The winter storm has rendered roads across the southern U.S. treacherous.

In Atlanta, major thoroughfares are mostly clear, but secondary roads remain hazardous due to lingering slush and the potential for refreezing as temperatures drop.

The National Weather Service warns that melting snow could refreeze after sundown, turning roadways into dangerous ice sheets.

In response to the hazardous conditions, the Atlanta Hawks postponed their scheduled afternoon game against the Houston Rockets, citing safety concerns for players, fans, and staff.

The NBA has announced that a new date for the game will be determined later.

Power Outages and Emergency Declarations

The storm has led to widespread power outages across the region. In Georgia, freezing rain caused electrical outages affecting over 110,000 customers on Friday night. By Saturday evening, power crews had restored service to most areas, though a few thousand remained without electricity.

Governors in several states, including Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas, Tennessee, and North Carolina, have declared states of emergency to mobilize resources and address the storm's impact.

National Guard troops have been deployed in some areas to assist stranded motorists and support recovery efforts.

Impact on Communities

The storm has brought rare snowfall to southern cities unaccustomed to such weather. Nashville, Tennessee, received several inches of snow, prompting businesses and churches to begin clearing pathways in anticipation of reopening.

Judah Temple of Praise members shoveled and salted sidewalks and parking lots to ensure safe access for Sunday services.

Similarly, the Bad Luck Burger Club food truck in east Nashville prepared to welcome customers after closing due to the storm.

In Alabama, officials have warned that schools may remain closed if ice on secondary roads does not melt, emphasizing the importance of safety for students and staff.

The storm has resulted in school closures from Texas to South Carolina, giving millions of children a rare snow day.

Looking Ahead

As the storm moves out to sea off the East Coast, the southern U.S. is expected to experience a drop in temperatures, raising the risk of refreezing and continued hazardous road conditions.

Residents are advised to exercise caution when traveling and to stay informed about weather forecasts and advisories.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and are working to restore normalcy in the affected regions.