It’s Thanksgiving travel week: here’s what you need to know
We’re just a few days away from Thanksgiving but before we get to the turkey and cranberries, many have to get through a rough few days of travel.
On top of it being one of the worst traffic weeks of the year, rain is now also in the forecast for the holiday so be sure to plan ahead.
Palm Springs International Airport was already busy with travelers Tuesday morning. The executive director of the airport advises anyone taking a flight this week to arrive at least two hours prior to take off. And if you’re taking an international flight, arrive at least three hours prior no matter where you are flying out of.
Delays can be expected at airports due to a severe storm moving across the western United States. 450 flights have been canceled in Denver, Colorado so far. The 10:45 a.m. Tuesday flight arriving from Denver to the Palm Springs airport has been canceled.
For a complete list of current flight arrival and departure times at the Palm Springs airport click here.
The Palm Springs airport is prepping for the large influx of travelers by providing extra parking using a temporary economy lot located along Kirk Douglas Way. That lot opens Tuesday morning at 8:30 a.m. and costs $18 a day.
For those driving for the holiday, keep in mind the worst time to be on the road is going to be Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday afternoon, according to AAA. That's because in addition to the chance of rain and holiday travelers, you also have people commuting to and from work on the roads.
AAA expects to help 100,000 stranded drivers in California and more than 368,000 at the roadside across the country during this Thanksgiving holiday. Dead batteries, flat tires and lockouts will be the main reasons.
Ahead of any long trip, drivers are also advised to check their windshield wipers, batteries, tires, engine and oil. And of course, leave for your destination with plenty of time anticipated for traffic or delays.
AAA also estimates 55 million people will be traveling this week. Stay with News Channel 3 for weather and road updates throughout the holiday.