If your travel plans weren’t already in jeopardy, now Mother Nature is throwing a wrench into your vacation plans

In addition to the travel uncertainties caused by the rise in COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and beyond, travelers now face the possibility of Mother Nature interfering with their trips. This serves as a timely reminder to monitor weather conditions not just in your home area, but also at your travel destination.

South Florida is bracing for what appears to be a wet weekend ahead. The storm that once was Tropical Storm Fred weakened after passing over the Dominican Republic, but it may regain strength in the warm waters near Cuba, potentially causing havoc for the Florida Keys. The National Hurricane Center anticipates the storm will drench the Keys throughout the weekend and could bring tropical storm-force winds.

Miami could experience 3-5 inches of rain, and possibly more if the storm system persists. The primary concern is flooding, particularly in the Keys and Miami Beach. Beach officials informed the Miami Herald that they have already set up additional pumps around the city to mitigate potential flooding.

I got an early glimpse of what this weekend might look like in South Florida. While enjoying a beach day at the Margaritaville Beach Resort in Hollywood on Thursday, the skies suddenly darkened, rain began to fall, and wind gusts sent chairs and umbrellas flying into the pool.

As of Friday, the weather had not noticeably impacted flights at Miami International Airport (MIA). However, this could change over the weekend if the storm arrives with the anticipated effects. If you're heading to South Florida this weekend, it’s advisable to keep an eye on your airline's flight status and your weather app.

In other parts of the U.S., the issue isn’t rain but extreme heat.

Approximately 150 million people will be under excessive heat warnings this weekend due to heat waves affecting the East, Midwest, and the Pacific Northwest. This region has already suffered through a deadly record-breaking heat wave in 2021.

Although conditions aren’t expected to be as severe this time, cities like Portland, Oregon, and Seattle are preparing for temperatures that could soar into the triple digits again. The heat warnings cover western Oregon and much of Washington. With high temperatures and low humidity comes an increased risk of wildfires. Currently, a massive fire is raging in Northern California. The Dixie fire has already consumed half a million acres, making it the largest wildfire in the state's history.

Earlier this summer, wildfire smoke in Colorado became so intense that it caused hundreds of flight delays at Denver International Airport (DEN). The thick smoke eventually led to several flight cancellations due to reduced visibility, affecting takeoffs and landings.

So far, the current western wildfires have not resulted in any delays or cancellations this time.

Heat advisories extend from eastern Texas to Michigan, including the Northeast Corridor up through New England, affecting cities like Boston and Washington, D.C. Other cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Kansas City, and St. Louis may face even more severe conditions as humidity combines with the heat, making it unbearable for residents and visitors alike.

TPG has been reporting on the double impact of wildfires and the heat wave that have been troubling Greece for weeks. The situation has become dire enough for the U.S. Embassy to issue a natural disaster alert to warn travelers of potential hazards. These fires have been labeled an "ecological catastrophe" worse than any Greece has faced in decades.

The heat waves and historic drought in the American West illustrate how climate change is leading to more extreme and hazardous weather. This was emphasized in the report released by the United Nations this week, which has been referred to as a "code red for humanity."

This extensive document spans nearly 4,000 pages and presents evidence and scientific research detailing the extent of human-caused climate change, along with predictions for the future if greenhouse gas emissions are not controlled. Yet, perhaps the most impactful aspect of this comprehensive report is its clear and definitive assertion:

"There is no doubt that human activities have contributed to the warming of the atmosphere, oceans, and land."