Heavy Snowfall and Freezing Temperatures Disrupt Travel Plans During Peak Holiday Season
More than 1,000 flights were cancelled across the United States on Friday amid a severe winter storm during the peak holiday travel season. The storm brought heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures to parts of the Midwest and Northeast, causing significant travel disruptions.
Major Cities Hit Hard by the Storm
New York City, the largest city in the country, was bracing for up to 25 centimeters of snow overnight, with frigid temperatures and cold weather expected to persist throughout the weekend. FlightAware reported that as of 18:30 GMT on Friday, a total of 1,364 flights had been cancelled and 4,267 delayed. The airports in New York and Chicago were among the most affected.
New York Area Airports Severely Impacted
According to FlightAware, the airports in the New York area recorded 785 flight cancellations. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasted snowfall in the Upper Great Lakes region throughout the day, with the storm’s focus shifting northeastward.
“Dangerous Road Conditions” Warning Issued
“Road conditions will be dangerous for those returning from holiday vacations,” warned the NWS.
New York City Mayor Prepares Residents for Storm
New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced a winter storm warning and deployed municipal teams to clear roads. “All New Yorkers should prepare: avoid driving if possible and allow for extra time for public transportation,” Adams advised.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: How many flights were cancelled? Over 1,000 flights were cancelled across the United States.
- Q: Which cities were most affected by the storm? New York City, Chicago, and airports in the New York area were among the most affected.
- Q: How much snow was expected in New York City? Up to 25 centimeters of snow were forecasted for New York City.
- Q: What precautions were taken by New York City officials? Mayor Eric Adams issued a winter storm warning and deployed teams to clear roads, advising residents to avoid driving if possible and allow for extra time for public transportation.
- Q: What did the National Weather Service predict? The NWS forecasted snowfall in the Upper Great Lakes region and warned of dangerous road conditions for those returning from holiday vacations.
