Nor'easter Storm Disrupts Northeast Travel, Prompts Airline Warnings
Major airlines issue travel alerts as a powerful storm sweeps across the Eastern Seaboard, causing widespread flight delays and cancellations.
A significant nor'easter storm is causing widespread travel disruptions across the Northeastern United States, prompting five major airlines to issue travel advisories and warnings to passengers. The storm, expected to impact millions from North Carolina to Maine, has already led to numerous flight delays and cancellations.
American Airlines, JetBlue, Delta, United Airlines, and Southwest have all offered passengers flexibility to rebook flights without additional fees for travel impacted by the severe weather. These advisories cover numerous airports across the region, including major hubs like New York's JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, as well as Boston Logan International Airport.
LaGuardia Airport reported 661 delays and 33 cancellations on Friday, according to FlightAware. JFK experienced 411 delays and nine cancellations, while Newark saw 191 delays and four cancellations. Boston Logan International Airport recorded 219 delays and 78 cancellations.
The Federal Aviation Administration reported ground delays at LaGuardia and JFK due to high winds. New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency, warning residents to prepare for dangerous coastal flooding, strong winds, and potential power outages throughout the weekend. The most severe flooding is anticipated along the south shore of Long Island and parts of lower New York Harbor.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has indicated that strong winds could persist for up to 36 hours, with the most powerful gusts expected from Friday evening into Saturday night. In addition to flight disruptions, the storm is raising concerns about downed tree branches and power outages in areas like Massachusetts.
Philadelphia International Airport also reported 131 delays and three cancellations. The NWS in Philadelphia anticipates that high tides on Saturday morning or night could lead to flooding on coastal and bayside roads, potentially rendering some impassable.
Further north, Bradley International Airport in Connecticut experienced 31 delays. The storm's impact has already been felt along the Outer Banks in North Carolina, with considerable damage reported. A nor'easter is characterized by strong northeasterly winds and typically forms when a low-pressure system moves offshore along the U.S. East Coast.