This summer has brought a series of weather-related challenges for airlines and cruise lines, with the latest being tropical storm Helene. While these weather events haven’t caused major disruptions, they’ve been enough to make travel somewhat uncomfortable and unpredictable.
A tropical storm warning is in effect for September 16 in the Carolinas, and Helene is expected to make landfall on Monday afternoon near popular vacation destinations such as Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, and Conway in South Carolina.
Helene poses several threats to the region. Wind gusts could reach up to 55 mph, creating potentially hazardous conditions. The storm is also expected to generate large waves, possibly reaching up to 11 feet, and heavy rainfall could accumulate to around 10 inches. This combination of high winds, rough seas, and intense rain raises the risk of flash flooding, particularly in low-lying and coastal areas.
The impact of Helene could affect several major airlines and cruise lines that operate in and around the Carolinas. Myrtle Beach and other nearby locations are serviced by numerous airlines, and Charleston, South Carolina, as well as Wilmington, North Carolina, are popular ports for several cruise lines. Travel plans in these areas could be disrupted, so passengers should stay informed about any changes to their flights or cruises.
As Helene continues to move up the East Coast, it could also cause issues further north in Washington, D.C., and in neighbouring states such as Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. Travellers should keep an eye on weather updates and check with their airlines or cruise lines for any travel advisories, potential waivers, or information on change fees.
While tropical storm Helene is not expected to cause major disruptions, it is still significant enough to impact travel plans in the Carolinas and beyond. Travellers should remain vigilant and stay updated on the storm’s progress to avoid any potential disruptions to their trips.