Hurricane Helene continues to move through the Gulf of Mexico and continues to strengthen as it nears Florida's Big Bend region. If you're flying into the area during a storm, you may want to check your flight status.
“Helene looks likely to be at or very close to Category 4 strength when it makes landfall in Florida's Big Bend this evening,” the National Hurricane Center said on the afternoon of Sept. 26. he warned. USA Today.
A handful of airports in the region have closed their doors in anticipation of Helene's arrival. See if your trip will be affected.
Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Tampa International Airport suspended operations at 2 a.m. on September 26 and will remain closed until further notice, according to an announcement made on X. He also reiterated that “the airport is not a shelter” and shared a list of Hillsborough County shelters.
St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
Nearby St. Pete – Clearwater International Airport will also remain closed until September 26. The airport plans to reopen on Friday morning, September 27.
Tallahassee International Airport (TLH)
It is located directly on the road to Florida's capital, Helene. Unsurprisingly, Tallahassee airport has closed its doors until further notice.
“Operations at Tallahassee International Airport will be suspended on Thursday, September 26 and will resume as soon as it is safe to do so,” the airport wrote on social media.
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
Jacksonville International Airport is open for now, but the airport warned that “Helene will likely cause additional cancellations today and tomorrow.” If you are traveling via JAX, check with your airline for the latest updates.
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Miami International Airport, the state's largest, will remain open as of Thursday afternoon. However, make sure your flight is not affected.
“There may be some cancellations and delays due to possible severe weather conditions due to Hurricane Helene. If you are traveling, please check with your airline for the latest flight information,” the airport said in a statement. he said.
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport will remain open for now.
“We continue to monitor Hurricane Helene as it approaches Florida's Panhandle,” Airport wrote to X. “There are some cancellations and delays in the affected areas.”
Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
According to PBI's website, Palm Beach International is open as of Thursday afternoon, but a number of delays are currently affecting outbound flights.
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando airport in central Florida appears to be unaffected. “[MCO] “The airport remains open and operational,” he said. “We are currently making preparations ahead of Hurricane Helene and will continue to monitor the storm. Please contact your airline directly for updates regarding your flight.”