Waivers issued as Gulf Coast braces for Tropical Storm Barry
Airlines and hotel chains are preparing for the arrival of Tropical Storm Barry, the second named storm of the 2019 Atlantic hurricane season.
The storm could make landfall as a hurricane along the northern Gulf Coast this weekend, bringing major flooding and high winds to parts of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.
The US National Hurricane Center warned the slow-moving storm could become a Category 1 hurricane by later on Friday.
Marriott International has issued a statement saying it is closely monitoring the path of the storm.
"Our hotels in the predicted path of the storm have implemented storm preparation protocols. The safety of our guests and associates is always a top priority at Marriott," it said.
"In addition, we are in close contact with local authorities and, as always, will take guidance and direction from them as the situation warrants. We encourage those planning to travel to the storm area to check the news for the most current information and amend plans accordingly. Hotels in the impacted area are reviewing their cancellation fees; details may vary by hotel."
Meanwhile, airlines are issuing waivers to travelers who are potentially affected, mainly those flying to and from New Orleans or Houston but also to other airports.
No evacuations were ordered in New Orleans although residents have been advised to shelter in place.
On its current course Barry is expected to make landfall at Marsh Island, Louisiana which is about 100 miles from New Orleans.
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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