Winter storm has folks stuck and looking for warmth

"We've got extra crew on board. We've got some contract snow removal teams in place to help us as well. So, we will be out here all night long."

NEW HANOVER COUNTY (WWAY)–The snow affects a large portion of the mid-Atlantic and air travel. Earlier Tuesday night, activity at Wilmington International Airport was very light.

Operation Snow Patrol is a go! At Wilmington International Airport, the rare wintry weather has caused canceled flights, leaving some passengers wanting to go in or out of the Cape fearing in limbo. Bill and Maureen Lewis can tell it best. The two were heading out to Atlanta, then to LAX, but had a change of plans.

“Safety first. It could be worse. A lot of bad things have happened to people,” Bill and Maureen explained.

Despite that, Airport Director Jeff Bourk says the airport is prepared for what’s to come.

“We’ve got extra crew on board. We’ve got some contract snow removal teams in place to help us as well. So, we will be out here all night long,” Bourk explained.

Meanwhile, at The Warming Shelter ILM, The Grace United Methodist Church has a packed house with homeless people trying to beat the cold and get themselves a warm meal.

Volunteer Joseph Stanley Jr. says he’s working with about 200 guests Tuesday night and doesn’t plan to turn anyone away.

“We’re going to take them. We’re going to put them on the floor, in the closet. We’re going to put them wherever we can put them. If it’s cold outside and they need something to eat, we’re going to try to feed them and get them out of the cold. That’s the best we can do,” Stanley shared.

With this week’s cold weather, it’s great to mention The Warming Shelter ILM is holding homeless individuals until 1 p.m. At Facts of Life Church in Columbus County, they too, have a warming shelter open for people.
Despite that Bourk, with the Wilmington International Airport, says to check your flights regularly for updates on delays and cancellations to avoid a wasted trip.