ATLANTA, GA — Despite a weekend of severe thunderstorms and travel advisories, Memorial Day travelers across Georgia moved forward with their plans, leading to one of the busiest travel holidays in recent years. Airports, highways, and public transit systems faced delays, but state agencies and travelers adapted under pressure.
Severe Weather Meets High Travel Volume
The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport issued multiple alerts as heavy rains and lightning storms impacted major transportation corridors. On Friday and Saturday alone, more than 250 flight delays were reported out of Atlanta’s airport due to lightning-related ground stops and staffing adjustments.
On the roads, I-75, I-285, and Georgia Highway 138 experienced slower traffic flow, particularly near Clayton County, as visibility dropped and road conditions became hazardous. GDOT deployed additional crews across metro Atlanta and maintained live updates through its 511 Georgia alert system.
“We had crews on standby across all high-risk corridors throughout the holiday period,” said Mark Evans, GDOT spokesperson. “Our priority was keeping traffic flowing safely amid unpredictable weather.”
Local Impact: Clayton County Roads and Power Disruptions
In Clayton County, scattered power outages were reported on Saturday evening in portions of Jonesboro and Riverdale, affecting traffic signals at several intersections. Public safety officials responded quickly, and by Sunday afternoon, most outages were resolved.
Clayton County Emergency Services issued an advisory late Saturday urging residents to avoid non-essential travel during peak storm hours. No major road closures were reported locally, though Tara Boulevard experienced moderate flooding near Lake Spivey.
Traveler Experience: Resilience Despite Setbacks
Many Georgia residents continued with their Memorial Day getaways despite the forecast.
“Flight got pushed back by three hours, but I still made it to Miami in time for dinner,” said Stephanie Moore, a traveler from Forest Park, who flew out Sunday evening. “Security lines were long, but people were patient.”
At the Greyhound terminal in Atlanta, buses also saw extended boarding times due to weather reroutes. Yet the overall mood remained calm as holiday-goers made their way to coastal destinations or family gatherings.
Travel Data: Georgia and the U.S. Hit New Post-Pandemic Highs
According to AAA, more than 1.3 million Georgians were expected to travel over the Memorial Day weekend—up nearly 4% from 2023. Nationwide, the TSA screened over 2.8 million travelers on Friday alone, marking the busiest single day for air travel since before the pandemic.
“People are back on the move, even with challenging weather,” said AAA Georgia spokesperson Montrae Waiters. “The need for family connection and travel freedom remains strong.”
What’s Next: Weather Outlook and Travel Caution
Meteorologists at the National Weather Service in Peachtree City project continued rain through Tuesday, with potential for more localized flooding. GDOT urges drivers to check 511ga.org and monitor county-level advisories. Airline travelers are advised to reconfirm bookings, especially for Monday evening and early Tuesday departures.
Have You Been Affected?
Faced delays this Memorial Day weekend? Tell us how the storms affected your travel plans—share your experience in the comments below.
