Winter Storm Disrupts Travel Plans During Peak Holiday Season
Approximately 1,500 flights were cancelled across the United States on Friday amidst the peak holiday travel season, with severe winter storm warnings and forecasts of heavy snowfall in the Midwest and Northeast regions.
Millions Affected by Severe Weather
More than 40 million Americans were under winter storm warnings or weather advisories just one day after Christmas. An additional 30 million people faced flash flood or storm warnings in California, where an atmospheric river caused heavy rainfall.
New York City Braces for Heavy Snowfall
New York City was preparing to receive up to 25 centimeters of snow overnight, the heaviest snowfall in four years. The cold weather is expected to persist throughout the weekend in the country’s largest city.
Flight Disruptions Across Major Airports
By 9:00 PM GMT on Friday, 1,490 flights were cancelled and an additional 5,900 were delayed, according to FlightAware. Airports in New York and Chicago were among the most affected.
FlightAware reported that the New York area saw 850 flight cancellations. Alerts were also issued for Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, parts of Michigan, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
The National Weather Service (NWS) predicted heavy snowfall in the Upper Great Lakes region, which would move northeastward.
“Road conditions will be dangerous for those returning from holiday travel,” warned the NWS.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams issued a winter storm warning and deployed municipal teams to clear roads. He advised all New Yorkers to prepare by avoiding driving if possible and allowing extra time for public transportation.
California Experiences Heavy Rainfall
Meanwhile, California, located on the West Coast of the U.S., experienced heavy rainfall throughout the week. However, the NWS forecasts that the rains will subside by the weekend.
The intense storm and subsequent flooding forced the closure of Santa Barbara Airport, located northwest of Los Angeles. By Friday morning, after crews worked through the night to remove water from runways, authorities announced the airport’s reopening.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: How many flights were cancelled? A: Approximately 1,500 flights were cancelled across the U.S.
- Q: Which regions were affected by the winter storm? A: The Midwest and Northeast regions experienced severe weather conditions.
- Q: How many people were affected by the winter storm warnings? A: Over 70 million Americans were under winter storm warnings or weather advisories.
- Q: How much snowfall was expected in New York City? A: Up to 25 centimeters of snowfall was forecasted for New York City.
- Q: Which airports were most affected by the flight disruptions? A: Airports in New York and Chicago experienced significant flight cancellations and delays.
- Q: What weather conditions were experienced in California? A: California faced heavy rainfall and associated flooding, leading to the closure of Santa Barbara Airport.
