Flight delays and cancellations escalated over the weekend, with real-time flight tracking data confirming over 8,000 delays across the United States on Sunday, which was up from approximately 5,300 the previous day. Up-to-date flight information can be found in this real-time flight tracker.

A U.S. Department of Transportation official said 44% of Sunday’s delays stemmed from controller absences — up sharply from the usual 5%.

It could be a rough week for air travel as the partial government shutdown nears the one-month mark, air traffic controllers miss their first full paychecks, and Hurricane Melissa causes disruptions.

Hurricane Melissa intensified to Category 5 strength Monday as it neared Jamaica with up to 30 inches (76 centimetres) of rain and a life-threatening storm surge.

Widespread damage to property and infrastructure is expected and some were already in storm shelters Sunday Night.