Snowstorm Disrupts Holiday Travel as Over 1,500 Flights Delayed Across Northeast and Great Lakes

Heavy snow hit major cities in the Northeast and Great Lakes late Friday. It forced airlines to delay or cancel more than 1,500 flights during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year. The storm moved in fast and created dangerous road and air conditions. Airports in New York and New Jersey faced the most pressure. The main keyword is snowstorm.

The snowfall eased by Saturday morning, but the impact remained. According to the Associated Press, airlines struggled to restore normal service. Crews worked overnight to clear runways and major highways. Forecasters warned that some areas could face more delays as winds stayed strong.

Snowstorm Flight Delays Hit Major Holiday Travel Routes

The snowstorm pushed across the region from the northwest and reached the Atlantic coast by Friday night. According to Reuters, the heaviest snow fell on parts of Long Island and the Catskills. Some places saw up to ten inches. New York City recorded about four inches, which was less than expected.

Airports issued alerts hours before the snow arrived. Newark Liberty, John F. Kennedy, and LaGuardia warned travelers about possible delays. Many passengers waited overnight as flights were rescheduled. Airlines said safety remained the top concern.

Road travel also slowed across several states. The National Weather Service reported hazardous conditions from the Great Lakes to southern New England. Power crews prepared for tree damage and outages. Officials asked drivers to stay off the roads until plows could clear the snow.

State leaders acted fast as the storm gained strength. New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in more than half the state. Acting New Jersey Governor Tahesha Way also issued an emergency order. She urged people to avoid travel until crews made roads safe.

How the Snowstorm May Affect Holiday Travel Plans

The storm hit at a time when airports were already crowded. Many families planned to move between Christmas and New Year’s. Airlines faced increased demand and reduced flexibility. The sudden snow only added pressure to a tight system.

Forecasters said the storm would weaken by Saturday, but delays could last longer. Crews needed time to de-ice planes and remove snow from runways. Passengers were advised to check their flight status before leaving home. Some also faced long lines as airlines worked to rebook seats.

The broader impact may continue through the weekend. Weather experts said more cold air could follow the storm. This could freeze wet roads and slow travel again. Travelers across the Northeast were encouraged to use caution.

For many, the storm served as a reminder of winter’s unpredictability. Holiday travel often strains major airports. A snowstorm can quickly disrupt even strong systems. Officials said preparation helped reduce the impact, but normal service would take time to restore.

The snowstorm slowed one of the year’s busiest travel periods. Crews, airlines, and travelers now work to get back on track. The snowstorm may ease, but its effects will last through the weekend.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How many flights were delayed by the snowstorm?

More than 1,500 flights were delayed or canceled. Most delays were reported on Friday night. Airports worked to reopen runways by Saturday.

Q2: Which areas saw the most snow?

Parts of Long Island and the Catskills saw the highest totals. Some areas recorded up to ten inches. New York City saw around four inches.

Q3: Are airport delays expected to continue?

Delays may continue into the weekend. Crews need time to clear snow and manage backlogged flights. Travelers are urged to check schedules often.

Q4: Why were states placed under emergency orders?

Officials issued emergency orders because of dangerous roads and heavy snow. This allowed crews to respond faster. It also warned residents to stay safe.

Q5: Will more winter weather follow the storm?

Forecasters said cold air may follow. This could freeze wet roads. More delays are possible if conditions worsen.

Trusted Sources: Associated Press, Reuters, National Weather Service.