LAX Issues Ground Stop as Powerful Storm Triggers Thunderstorm Risk, Heavy Rain, and Low Visibility in Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – Departing flights at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) were hit with a ground stop Monday as a powerful storm moved across the region, bringing heavy rain and increasing the threat of thunderstorms that can quickly disrupt air travel.
What the LAX Ground Stop Means for Travelers
A “ground stop” is an air traffic control action that temporarily halts departing flights from taking off. The move is typically used when conditions at or around an airport make it unsafe or inefficient to keep aircraft moving normally.
In this case, the storm’s impacts — intense rainfall, reduced visibility, and thunderstorm potential — created the kind of environment where flight schedules can unravel fast, especially during busy travel windows. ABC7 reported that the ground stop was tied to storms dumping heavy rain across Southern California and lowering visibility at the airport.
Why Thunderstorms and Low Visibility Can Shut Things Down Fast
Even when an airport remains open, thunderstorms create serious operational problems:
- Lightning risk can force ground crews to pause baggage handling and fueling
- Low cloud ceilings and reduced visibility can slow arrivals and departures
- Heavy rain and shifting winds can cause spacing delays, diversions, or temporary runway restrictions
That combination often leads to a chain reaction: planes can’t depart on time, incoming aircraft get backed up, and gates fill up quickly — making delays worse for passengers already at the terminal.
What Passengers Should Do Right Now
Travelers flying out of LAX Monday should prepare for delays that can change hour by hour, especially if thunderstorms develop near the airport. Officials urged passengers to check directly with their airline for updated departure times.
If you’re traveling in or out of the region during this storm, here are practical steps that can help:
- Check your flight status frequently before heading to the airport
- Allow extra time for slow traffic and wet road conditions
- Pack essentials in a carry-on in case you’re stuck in the terminal longer than expected
- Keep alternate plans in mind if your flight is rebooked later in the day
Storm Impacts Extend Beyond the Airport
The same storm system affecting LAX is also dumping heavy rain across parts of Southern California, raising the risk for localized street flooding and difficult driving conditions — especially during peak commute times. If you’re traveling today, stay alert, use caution on wet roads, and watch for airline updates as weather conditions evolve.
