Post by : Bianca
Haleem
A significant winter storm is affecting air travel in New York City, causing significant disruption for holiday travellers and forcing airlines to cancel numerous flights at the area’s main airports.
As reported by flight-tracking service FlightAware, over 400 flights were cancelled by Friday morning across John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport, with additional delays occurring as airlines grounded services in anticipation of worsening weather.
Airlines acted quickly after meteorologists forecast predicted heavy snowfall, visibility issues, and increasing winds expected to peak throughout Saturday, creating perilous conditions for air and ground operations.
Heavy snowfall forecast for Saturday
The National Weather Service anticipates snowfall amounts ranging from four to eight inches in New York City, Long Island, and nearby areas. The most substantial accumulation is expected between Friday afternoon and Saturday morning, with freezing temperatures exacerbating the risk of icy roads and limited visibility.
City officials alerted residents and travellers to prepare for rapidly deteriorating conditions. The New York City Emergency Management agency advises individuals to limit unnecessary travel, as light snow could quickly become heavier by the evening.
Emergency response activated
Mayor Eric Adams has announced that all city agencies are now functioning under the Winter Weather Emergency Plan, with emergency crews on standby throughout the five boroughs.
“As New Yorkers travel during the holidays and approach the New Year, they must remain prepared for hazardous weather conditions from Friday into Saturday,” Adams emphasized. He recommends avoiding driving unless necessary, allowing extra time for public transport, and staying updated with official communications.
Sanitation teams commenced road pretreatments early Friday, deploying salt spreaders and getting snow plows ready while warning of delays in waste collection and other services as major routes take precedence.
Travel risks explained
Emergency personnel are on duty around the clock to assist with snow removal and coordination efforts. Property owners are reminded of their obligation to promptly clear sidewalks for pedestrian safety, with penalties for non-compliance.
Snow is anticipated to taper off by midday Saturday, though authorities caution that icy patches may persist into Sunday. A more significant cold front later in the week could introduce freezing rain in parts of western Pennsylvania, while windy conditions are expected in cities such as Washington and Philadelphia.
Widespread impacts expected
Winter weather advisories are currently active in parts of southern Connecticut, northeastern New Jersey, and the broader mid-Atlantic region. As the storm moves east, there is a possibility of it transitioning to freezing rain before heading offshore.
With the holiday season traffic hitting its peak, airlines have advised travellers to brace for ongoing disruptions even after the snow subsides, as crews will need time to de-ice planes and clear runways.
At this time, travellers looking to fly out of New York should prepare for continued delays and cancellations, and officials urge patience and caution until conditions improve and services can return to normal.
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