Draco Aftermath: 500 Chicago Flights Canceled, Massive Power Outages Expected

Impact

In anticipation of Draco's heaviest snowfalls coming between 3 PM and 9 PM, more than 500 flights have been canceled out of Chicago's O'Hare and Midway airports.

Utilizing information from FlightStats, the Chicago Tribune reports that inbound flights to O'Hare are averaging a two and a half hour delay, while flights to Midway are delayed less than 15 minutes.

The Barrington Patch has a quote from Con Ed on expected power outages:

“This winter storm is expected to be especially damaging to our system as we face a potential combination of wind, snow and ice,” said Terence Donnelly, executive vice president and chief operating officer, ComEd. “We have increased staffing levels and proactively requested assistance from other utilities to ensure we are ready to quickly and safely begin power restoration efforts.” 

Illinois will reportedly dispatch 182 plows to ensure transportation remainds possible.

Another tragedy: the Weather Channel is confirming 3 dead in Draco-related traffic accidents in Iowa and Kansas, as well as a stranded driver in Utah.