URGENT UPDATE: Holiday travel is surging in the Chicago area as travelers rush to finalize their plans for the New Year. The TSA projects 2025 to be another record-setting year for holiday travel, with O’Hare Airport already experiencing 28 cancellations by 10 a.m. today, primarily due to foggy weather conditions.
As travelers flock to O’Hare, the airport is bustling with passengers heading across the country. Local meteorologist Jaisol Martinez reports that fog has significantly reduced visibility at both O’Hare and Midway Airport, though many travelers remain optimistic about their plans. “Not too bad, no one’s yelling or anything like that. It’s fairly early, so everyone’s pretty chill,” said traveler Kosi Ogbuli.
Passenger volume in Chicago is expected to climb nearly 6% compared to last year’s travel period. The projected busiest day at O’Hare has already passed on December 20, while Midway’s peak travel day is anticipated on December 27. Nationwide, the TSA predicts that Sunday will witness the heaviest traveler volumes.
For those opting to drive, AAA warns that traffic congestion will peak between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. today, adding to the urgency of travel planning. With many families heading home after the holidays, the atmosphere is charged with excitement and anticipation.
As travelers navigate the busy airports, officials urge everyone to remain patient and allow extra time for their journeys. With record numbers expected, it’s crucial for travelers to stay informed about potential disruptions due to weather.
Stay tuned for updates as the holiday travel rush continues to unfold across the Chicago area.
