FARGO — They are the biggest travel days of the year, and for some, it may be the biggest headache of the year.
As soon as Dave Marthaler and his wife walked into Hector International Airport Tuesday, Nov. 26, to board their flight to Denver, it was delayed due to a storm. They weren't alone. All day, flights had been delayed and canceled in Fargo due to a major winter storm stretching across much of the central United States.
On the roads it appeared traffic was heavier than usual. Troopers said they believe people were getting a head start on the long weekend before the flakes begin to fly. However, some drivers had already put the brakes on their plans.
Even though it looked like smooth sailing Tuesday in Fargo, troopers said conditions will change quickly as drivers headed south or east. With more snow and ice expected to start on Thanksgiving and linger into the weekend, troopers recommended drivers stick to the main roads on the way home from friends and loved ones.
Troopers also had this advice: If you must head out, check the forecast and use common sense. Though they do prefer if you just spend an extra day with the family.
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"You yourself may be a pretty good driver, but we so share the road with people who make poor choices," said Sgt. Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol.
Airline schedules are expected to get turbulent over the next few days as major hubs will be impacted by the storm. Airlines are already making exceptions for passengers flying through Minneapolis and Denver.
"They are offering the opportunity to re-book your flights to a different day, so you might consider doing that if you are really afraid of being stuck in an airport for a long period of time," said Gene LaDoucer from AAA.
Both North Dakota and Minnesota offer up-to-date road conditions on their websites. You can also download WDAY's StormTRACKER app on Google Play or the Apple App Store for information on how to help plan your schedule.
