Storms disrupt Paris airports, 20% of flights cancelled in Orly this Thursday night

Heavy thunderstorms disrupted operations at Parisian airports on Thursday evening, prompting authorities to cancel 20 percent of flights at Orly Airport starting at 7 p.m. The French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) issued instructions to airlines to reduce their flight schedules at Orly to ensure safety while minimizing disruptions. Similar delays were anticipated at Charles de Gaulle Airport, located northeast of Paris. The storms arrived after several days of intense heatwave conditions across Île-de-France, which had been under an orange-level heat warning from Météo-France on Thursday and a yellow-level warning for Friday. Weather forecasts indicated the possibility of showers and continued thunderstorm risks throughout the night, beginning around 6:30 p.m. According to La Chaîne Météo, part of the Figaro media group, these weather conditions could bring relief to residents who had endured extreme temperatures over recent days. At Orly Airport, the DGAC specifically requested airlines to cut their flight programs by 20 percent from 7 p.m., aiming to maintain operational safety amid the adverse weather. Passengers affected by the cancellations were advised to contact their respective airlines directly to confirm whether their flights would proceed as scheduled. The decision followed persistent concerns about the impact of severe weather on air traffic. Earlier in the week, the region had faced record-breaking temperatures, with some areas experiencing prolonged periods of high heat. This sudden shift in weather patterns has created challenges for both airport operators and passengers. In addition to flight cancellations at Orly, delays were expected at Charles de Gaulle Airport, though specific numbers were not immediately available. Both airports have implemented contingency plans to manage the situation, including rerouting flights and adjusting departure times based on real-time weather updates. Authorities emphasized the importance of passenger awareness and preparedness. Travelers were urged to stay informed through their airline’s communication channels and to consider alternative travel arrangements if necessary. Some airlines began issuing notifications to affected customers earlier in the day, providing updates on potential changes to flight schedules. The weather forecast suggested that the storm activity would persist into the early hours of Friday morning, raising concerns about further disruptions. Meteorologists warned that the combination of heavy rain and lightning posed additional risks to aviation operations, necessitating ongoing monitoring and adjustments to flight planning. As the situation unfolded, airport officials worked closely with meteorological services to assess the evolving conditions. Real-time data from radar systems and satellite imagery helped guide decisions regarding flight cancellations and delays. These measures aimed to prevent potential hazards associated with poor visibility and unstable atmospheric conditions. With the return of rainfall offering respite from the heat, the focus remained on ensuring the safe movement of passengers and cargo despite the challenging weather. Airlines and airport authorities continued to coordinate efforts to mitigate the effects of the storms and restore normal operations as soon as possible.