1,000 flights canceled and 22,000 delayed as Storm Hilary batters USA
Tropical Storm Hilary is causing travel chaos in the South West with tens of thousands of flights delayed.
Storm Hilary is set to hammer the US, with places like Palm Springs already underwater. The weather event, hitting the West Coast has been dubbed "life-threatening".
The massive storm is causing mass flight cancellations and delays, with airports in the affected areas bearing the brunt of the disruptions.
As the US braces for high winds, heavy rain, and the looming threat of significant flooding, more than 22,000 flights have been delayed across the nation this Monday, at the time of writing.
Airports in the South West, where Tropical Storm Hilary is currently hitting hardest, are struggling with the most cancelations and delays.
At LAX 14 flights have been cancelled at 41 have been delayed. Fifty-two flights have been delayed out of San Francisco.
Yesterday San Diego International Airport reported a staggering 37 percent of departures and 41 percent of arriving flights were canceled.
Las Vegas's Harry Reid International Airport canceled 20 percent of departures and 22 percent of arrivals.
Hollywood Burbank Airport and Orange County's John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana have also been hit hard, with cancellation rates of 41 percent and 20 percent for departures and arrivals, respectively.
Tropical Storm Hilary is anticipated to bring heavy rain and strong winds. As a result, there is a significant risk of flash flooding, particularly in mountainous and desert regions.
Nevada and inland California are particularly vulnerable to debris flows and mudslides, it's been warned.
READ MORE: Burning Man faces potential washout as Storm Hilary hits Nevada
The government has issued travel warnings to those planning trips that may be affected by the weather.
It said: "There could be tropical storm conditions in parts of Southwest USA, due to Hurricane Hilary from 20 August. A tropical storm watch has been issued for Southern California.
You should:
- monitor weather updates from the US National Hurricane Center
- follow the advice of local authorities and the tour operator, including any evacuation orders
"In the aftermath of a hurricane, there can be flooding, high winds, and continued rainfall. See the tropical cyclones page for further advice on how to prepare for travel during hurricane season, what to do ahead of a storm, and what to expect in the aftermath of a hurricane."
