80+ flights canceled at Charlotte airport, others delayed as Hurricane Idalia nears

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - More than 60 flights have been canceled at the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport on Wednesday as the southeastern United States braces for impacts of Hurricane Idalia.

As of 12:30 p.m., 84 flights had been canceled and 94 others were delayed, Flight Aware data shows.

Heavy rain and storms moved through the Charlotte region overnight, knocking power out to thousands.

The majority of flights canceled in Charlotte involve flights either going to or arriving from Florida.

Earlier this week, the airport in Tampa said it was shutting down until at least Thursday.

Idalia made landfall near Keaton Beach in Florida on Wednesday morning as a strong Category 3 storms. Maximum sustained winds reached 125+ mph with even higher gusts.

To help those displaced by the hurricane, or who were forced to evacuate, Charlotte Motor Speedway has opened its campground to anyone in need of a place to stay.

Those planning to stay at the speedway must check in at the Camping World Racing Resort office on Bruton Smith Boulevard.

On top of flight problems, Idalia could also cause power outages and flooding across the Carolinas.

Related: NHC: Idalia strengthens to Category 4 hurricane

Watch continuous weather coverage here:

Copyright 2023 WBTV. All rights reserved.