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As Memorial Day weekend draws to a close, millions of Americans are facing travel disruptions due to severe weather across the southern and central United States. A series of destructive storms, including grapefruit-sized hail and tornadoes, has impacted travel plans and caused significant delays.
Hundreds of flights have been delayed and dozens canceled, with Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport experiencing the most significant disruptions. This airport, American Airlines' largest hub, was expected to serve about 1.4 million travelers over the holiday weekend. Meanwhile, Denver International Airport also faced delays after thunderstorms led to a temporary ground stop on Sunday (May 25).
The severe weather has produced over 180 reports of extreme conditions, including six preliminary tornadoes in New Mexico and Texas. Hail as large as six inches was reported near Afton, Texas. The threat of severe weather is expected to continue from Texas through the Deep South and parts of Florida into Tuesday (May 27).
"These storms may be capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and possibly a tornado. In addition, heavy rainfall with these thunderstorms could cause locally heavy rain and flash flooding," the Weather Prediction Center said.
While the South faces storm threats, most of the U.S. is experiencing favorable travel conditions. The Northeast is seeing seasonal temperatures with sun and clouds, and the western third of the country remains dry.
In addition to the severe weather, this Memorial Day marks the first major holiday travel weekend requiring passengers to have either a REAL ID or a passport for domestic flights. The AAA predicts a record 45.1 million people traveled at least 50 miles from home over the holiday weekend, with 38 million traveling by car, benefiting from gas prices averaging $3.18 per gallon.