RDU travelers catch the last flight to Tampa before Hurricane Helene makes landfall

MORRISVILLE, N.C. (WNCN) — Livingstone Clark, who booked his flight to Tampa just three days ago, is uncertain about his journey from Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

“Let’s see if I make it there,” he said. “I know there is a storm coming, but I have to get out there.”

But we found one traveler who managed to get away from Florida as Hurricane Helene moves toward the southeastern U.S.

“Down in Naples the weather was fairly windy, but not awful yet,” said Eric Delash.

As Floridians brace for the worst, travelers like Karmen Novakovich, a resident of the Tampa Bay area, said it comes with the territory.

“I know all about it. I heard all about it talking to my daughters,” Novakovich said. “I’m not scared; it’s not my first rodeo.”

Tampa International Airport tweeted Wednesday afternoon, saying it would close at 2 a.m. Thursday and reopen when it is safe. That’s why Livingstone held off booking his return flight to RDU.

“I actually booked a one-way trip because I had a feeling I may have some challenges getting back out, so I will figure that out at the time,” said Clark.

As the state of Florida braces for the worst, these travelers are hoping things will die down before they make landfall.

“I am super thankful and happy that my flight isn’t canceled; that’s what’s making me happy. Get home as soon as possible,” said Novakovich.

“I have a few friends wishing me luck, so we will see how this works out,” said Clark.

RDU strongly recommends that you check your flights tomorrow to ensure they are not delayed or canceled due to the storm. You can check here , as it’s crucial to stay updated and prepared for potential disruptions.

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