More than 7,000 flights across the United States were canceled as a powerful winter storm slammed the Northeast, disrupting travel and daily life for millions. Airlines moved early to ground aircraft ahead of heavy snowfall and high winds. Officials warned that conditions could deteriorate rapidly as the system intensified.
The brunt of the storm targeted major metropolitan areas including New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia. Forecasters predicted snowfall totals between 12 and 24 inches in some regions, with wind gusts strong enough to create whiteout conditions. The National Weather Service issued blizzard warnings across parts of the Northeast, signaling dangerous travel conditions and potential power outages.
Major carriers including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Southwest Airlines announced widespread cancellations and travel waivers. Airports in the New York metropolitan area, including JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark Liberty International, experienced thousands of grounded departures. Boston Logan International Airport also reported significant disruptions as snow accumulated on runways and taxiways.
Airlines encouraged passengers to check flight statuses before heading to airports and to take advantage of flexible rebooking policies. Transportation officials urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, warning that heavy snowfall combined with strong winds could make roads impassable in certain areas.
State and local authorities activated emergency response plans as plow crews worked to clear highways and municipal streets. Utility companies prepared for scattered outages as wind gusts threatened above-ground power lines. Emergency management officials advised families to stock essential supplies and remain indoors during peak storm conditions.
The winter storm marks one of the most significant weather events of the season for the Northeast. Travel disruptions are expected to continue as crews work to restore normal operations and ensure passenger safety in the aftermath of the blizzard.
