CONNECTICUT, USA — December is the new April as rain, fog, and warmer temperatures have been part of the day-to-day in Connecticut recently.
Though some may say this is better than snow, the weather has certainly made it difficult for airlines and even drivers this holiday season.
Thursday marked the busiest day of the year for travelers to head back home with hopes of making it just in time for New Year's festivities with family and friends.
According to AAA, 1 million Connecticut residents were expected to travel for year-end holidays.
"This year, travel has increased … total travel is up 2.5% in Connecticut and New England as well and that is coming back to what we’ve seen pre-pandemic," said Tracy Noble, spokesperson for AAA Greater Hartford.
While airports saw the yearly hustle and bustle, the roadways have been just as packed.
Noble said 87% of people chose driving as their mode of transportation to get to and from their destination.
However, in recent days, the weather, more so specifically the fog, left travelers with a headache.
"The fog has been intense. It’s been like Jurassic Park some of these days," said Josh Morgan, spokesperson for the Connecticut Department of Transportation.
As of Thursday, the majority of flights at Bradley International Airport are on time with no cancellations, but before Thursday, it was a different story.
Morgan said workers were prepared to ensure the highways were well-lit.
"We keep track of our highway illumination, making sure that those bulbs are on and that they’re working and if something does burn out or break, that we get out there quickly to address it," added Morgan.
For travelers who are planning to get to and back by air, the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) has these tips:
- Arrive to your terminal at least 90 minutes before your flight
- Download your airlines' apps to get up-to-date alerts about any flight changes
- Check your parking options at the airport before heading there. No reservation is needed and prices start at 7 dollars a day
- Place gifts in bags instead or wrap them at your destination
Of course, we all like to have fun during the holidays, but having fun comes with consequences if one wrong decision is made.
The U.S. Department of Transportation partnered with state and local law enforcement for their Drive Sober, Get Pulled Over initiative, which started on Christmas Day and goes until New Year's Day.
"Please do not drive drunk tonight, this weekend, any time of the year, use public transportation, use a rideshare business," added Morgan.
According to CAA, between December 20-31, they expect more than 110,000 passengers will travel out of the airport. The busiest travel times will be between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m.
Carmen Chau is an anchor and reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at cchau@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook and X.
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