Hundreds of flights canceled at Charlotte Douglas ahead of winter storm

CHARLOTTE — Hundreds of flights at Charlotte Douglas International Airport have been canceled on Friday in anticipation of inclement weather.

As of 6 a.m. Friday morning, Channel 9 tracked more than 500 cancellations.

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A Winter Storm Warning was issued starting Friday at 7 a.m. and it will last through Saturday morning.

>> CLICK HERE for the latest forecast from Severe Weather Center 9

Officials said the airport overlook will be closed from noon Friday until noon Saturday.

CDAP said airport workers and about 40 trucks are on standby to de-ice planes and remove snow from runways.

They also told Channel 9 a new 108,000 square foot de-icing pad will make things more efficient at the airport. De-icing operations will now be consolidated near the primary departure runway.

We’re continuing to monitor impacts at the airport. You can check the status of your flight, or visit your airline’s website, on FlightAware.

Following other winter weather impacts, several school districts made changes for Friday in anticipation of the inclement weather.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation gave an update Thursday on their plans to help protect drivers from this weekend’s winter storm.

[ ALSO: NC transportation officials lay out plans for winter storm ]

NCDOT officials said its workers will be on 12-hour shifts to respond to any issues once the storm starts. They have nearly 2,000 trucks ready to go once the storm arrives.

Officials encouraged everyone to stay home and off the roads during the storm if possible.

Winter Weather Guide:

Stay with Channel 9 for the latest winter storm coverage.

(VIDEO: Mecklenburg County shelters to activate extreme weather protocols)

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