A snowstorm in America cancels thousands of Christmas flights
The US aviation sector faced a severe crisis over the Christmas holiday on Friday, as a powerful snowstorm brought air traffic to a near standstill across large parts of the country. The extreme weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and plummeting temperatures, led to the cancellation and delay of thousands of flights, disrupting travel plans for millions of Americans during one of the busiest times of the year.
Shocking figures from US airports
According to data from FlightAware, a website specializing in tracking flight traffic, at least 1,191 flights were canceled, and another 3,974 were delayed as of 6:00 PM GMT on Friday. This widespread disruption comes at a particularly critical time, as airports are packed with travelers eager to spend the holidays with their families, exacerbating the chaos and overcrowding in waiting areas at many major airports.
New York and Chicago are at the heart of the storm
The storm's impact was concentrated primarily in the Midwestern and Northeastern United States, with New York City and Chicago among the hardest hit. Reports indicated that 785 flights were canceled at New York airports alone due to the expected heavy snowfall and reduced visibility. In a swift response, New York City Mayor Eric Adams declared a citywide alert, directing emergency crews and snow removal equipment to ensure road safety and mitigate anticipated traffic disruptions.
Weather forecasts and traveler warnings
The National Weather Service issued severe warnings about continued snowfall, particularly in the Great Lakes region, as the storm gradually moves northeast. New York City, the largest U.S. city, is expected to experience a harsh night with record-breaking low temperatures and bitter cold throughout the weekend. Authorities urged travelers and drivers to exercise extreme caution on highways, which may be covered with icy patches, increasing the risk of skidding and accidents.
Storm effects on the holiday season
This storm is particularly significant given its timing, coinciding with the peak winter travel season. While U.S. airports are typically bustling with activity at this time of year, this year's severe weather has created a starkly different reality. The repercussions extend beyond logistics, encompassing economic losses for airlines and social impacts on stranded families. This event serves as a reminder of the challenges that climate change and extreme weather events pose to transportation infrastructure, not only in the United States but globally.
