Rain and Heavy Traffic to Disrupt Weekend Travel

News Summary

This weekend, travelers in the Upstate region should prepare for heavy rain and increased traffic as post-Christmas travel plans kick in. The National Weather Service expects significant downpours from Friday to Sunday, particularly on Saturday night, with some areas receiving over three inches of rain. AAA recommends drivers take extra precautions on the roads, including checking their vehicle’s readiness for wet conditions. Meanwhile, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport anticipates nearly 9,000 passengers but does not foresee significant flight disruptions. Travelers are advised to stay informed and plan accordingly.

Rain and Heavy Traffic Likely to Cause Havoc for Travelers This Weekend

As the weekend rolls in, residents of the Upstate region should brace themselves for a combination of soaking rain and heavy traffic, just in time for those post-Christmas travel plans. Meteorologists are predicting that the weather won’t be playing nice, and it might just put a damper on those holiday adventures.

Wet Weather on the Way

The National Weather Service has forecasted a steady downpour starting Friday and continuing through Sunday night. So grab those umbrellas because some areas are expecting to receive more than three inches of rain! It’s shaping up to be a wet one, especially with the heaviest rainfall likely occurring on Saturday night and lingering until around noon on Sunday. Luckily, we’re not expecting any icy conditions, as temperatures should be hovering in the 50s and 60s throughout the weekend.

Easy Does It on the Roads

This forecast isn’t just bad news for lazy days at home. For those hitting the roads, be prepared for some slower-than-usual travel times. The combination of rain and heavy post-Christmas traffic means you’ll need to give yourself extra time to reach your destinations. To stay safe, it’s a good idea to keep visibility at the top of your priority list. Remember, being able to “see and be seen” is crucial when driving in the rain.

Precautionary Measures for Drivers

Before you hit the road, AAA advises drivers to take a few simple precautions. Start by checking your windshield wipers and replacing any old ones. Don’t forget to monitor your tire treads and inflation levels and ensure your exterior lights are fully functional. In rainy conditions, it’s best to slow down and avoid using cruise control since it can reduce your ability to react quickly. Maintaining a larger following distance is wise as roads are likely to be slick and slippery.

Airport Travel Updates

For those traveling through Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, here’s some good news: the rain isn’t expected to impact flight schedules. However, you should still plan for possible delays caused by heavier traffic on the highways leading to the airport. On Sunday and Monday, nearly 9,000 passengers are projected to pass through GSP, so make sure you arrive at least two hours before your flight and consider pre-booking your parking on the airport’s website.

What to Expect This Weekend

The rain is set to kick off by Friday afternoon, with temperatures dipping to about 40 degrees at night. There’s also a chance of thunderstorms on Saturday night, bringing with them gusty winds and up to half an inch of additional rain. As Sunday rolls around, expect a high near 66 degrees with a 90% chance of rainfall—perfect for staying inside with hot cocoa!

Keep Your Eyes on the Weather

It’s essential to stay on top of local weather updates and pay attention to any advisory warnings due to the potential for intense storms. On the bright side, Monday is forecasted to clear up with pleasant highs in the mid-60s. But don’t get too comfortable, as rain is expected to return by Tuesday, so you may want to take advantage of any sunshine while it lasts.

With these wet and busy conditions on the horizon, it’s more important than ever to stay informed, stay safe, and most importantly, stay dry! Happy travels, everyone!