Winter Storm Chaos: Over 2,700 Flights Canceled Across Northeast and Great Lakes Amid States of Emergency
By Perplexity News Staff
New York, NY – A powerful winter storm battered the Northeast and Great Lakes regions on Saturday, canceling more than 2,700 flights and delaying thousands more during the peak holiday travel period between Christmas and New Year’s.[2]
The storm, packing heavy snow, ice, and sleet, snarled air travel at major airports including Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, and LaGuardia in the New York area, where airports issued snow warnings on social media platform X late Friday.[1][2] Flight-tracking service FlightAware reported at least 1,500 cancellations from Friday night into Saturday morning, with the total U.S. figure climbing to over 2,700 by midday Saturday.[1][2]
New York City awoke to just under three inches of snow – about half of initial forecasts – but hazardous conditions persisted across a broad swath from the Great Lakes through the northern mid-Atlantic and southern New England.[1][2] The National Weather Service highlighted risks of tree damage, power outages, and dangerous road travel, though forecasters noted the storm was weakening by Saturday morning.[1][2]
In response, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for more than half the state ahead of the onslaught.[1] Across the Hudson River, Acting New Jersey Governor Tahesha Way issued a statewide emergency declaration, citing “severe winter storm causing dangerous weather conditions, including heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain.”[1]
“This storm will cause dangerous road conditions and impact holiday travel,” Way stated. “We are urging travelers to avoid travel during the storm and allow crews to tend to the roads. Drivers should plan their travel accordingly, monitor conditions and road closures, and follow all safety protocols.”[1]
Travelers stranded at airports expressed frustration on social media, with many facing multihour delays or outright cancellations. “We’re stuck here with no updates,” one passenger tweeted from LaGuardia. Roads fared no better, as thousands turned to highways amid the disruptions, only to encounter whiteout conditions and icy overpasses.[1][2]
Forecast: More Snow, Bitter Cold Ahead
The immediate threat is easing, but relief is short-lived. Forecasters predict additional snow this weekend in the Midwest and Great Lakes, with rain and embedded thunderstorms possible Sunday evening.[2] Blizzard conditions could emerge by early Monday, featuring blowing snow and whiteout risks.[2]
In the Northeast, snow is tapering off in central and southern New England, where some areas tallied 4 to 8 inches.[2] Colder-than-normal temperatures will dominate the weekend.[2] Further west, snow persists in the northern and central Rockies and High Plains, though a fast-moving system may cap accumulations.[2]
The Northern Plains face an arctic surge behind a strong cold front on Saturday. CBS Philadelphia meteorologist Andrew Kozak warned of seasonably frigid air, with temperatures plunging below zero in parts of Montana by Sunday morning and wind chills dipping below minus 30 degrees amid gusty winds.[2]
| Region | Snow Accumulation | Additional Hazards |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | 3-8 inches (reported) | Ice, sleet, power outages |
| Great Lakes/Midwest | More snow expected | Blizzard conditions Monday |
| Northern Plains | Light snow | Wind chills < -30°F |
Airlines Scramble, Travelers Advised to Check Status
Major carriers like Delta, United, and American Airlines reported widespread disruptions, with ripple effects potentially lingering into Sunday. Aviation experts note that de-icing operations and reduced visibility are primary culprits, compounded by the high volume of holiday traffic.[3]
“Passengers should check with their airlines frequently and consider rebooking if possible,” advised FlightAware in a statement. Road warriors are urged to equip vehicles with winter kits, monitor 511 traffic services, and avoid unnecessary trips.[1]
This storm underscores the vulnerabilities of U.S. travel infrastructure during extreme weather, especially post-holiday when airports handle surges in returning passengers. Last year’s similar events led to billions in economic losses from delays and cancellations.
Broader Impacts and Preparation Tips
- Power Outages: Utilities in New York and New Jersey braced for downed lines from heavy, wet snow.
- Road Closures: Multiple interstates saw restrictions for commercial trucks.
- Preparation: Pack essentials like blankets, snacks, and chargers for potential stranding.
As the storm pivots eastward, attention shifts to cleanup and recovery. Officials remind residents to report downed power lines and never travel over flooded roads. With New Year’s Eve approaching, meteorologists are eyeing subsequent systems that could further complicate celebrations.
For live updates, consult the National Weather Service or FlightAware. Travelers: Stay informed, stay safe.
This article was compiled from reports by Fortune, CBS News, and Aviation24.be as of Saturday afternoon.