Overview:
Severe winter weather is disrupting holiday travel across the United States, with snow, ice, and extreme cold causing flight cancellations, transportation delays, and hazardous conditions during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Snowfall Causes Northeast Travel Delays
In the Northeast, snowfall affected travel late last week. New York City received about four inches of snow Friday night into early Saturday. This was slightly below some forecasts but enough to cause significant delays, while some nearby areas received higher amounts. FlightAware, a flight-tracking service, reported that airlines canceled at least 1,500 flights across the United States starting Friday night, though totals vary by source. Severe winter weather forced airlines to delay thousands more as they struggled to manage disruptions. Major airports in the region reported slower operations as crews worked to de-ice aircraft and clear runways.
Arctic Air and New Storm Threaten Central U.S.
The travel challenges are expected to continue as a new round of winter weather moves across the country. Meteorologists warn that arctic air will descend into the central Plains beginning Sunday. This will bring dangerously cold temperatures and the potential for record-breaking lows in some areas. A strong winter storm, sometimes referred to as Storm Devin, is likely to hit the upper Midwest and Great Lakes region from Sunday night to Monday. This follows the cold air.
Hazardous Conditions Expected for Air and Ground Travel
The storm could bring heavy snow, strong winds, and low visibility. These conditions make it even harder to travel by air and land during one of the busiest times of the year. Transportation officials are telling travelers to monitor the weather and allow extra time to reach their destinations.
Road and Rail Systems Prepare for Impact
Rail services and road travel could also be affected as icy conditions develop and snow accumulates. State transportation departments across the Midwest and Great Lakes are preparing plow crews and road treatment operations in anticipation of worsening conditions.
Airlines Issue Warnings as Holiday Travel Continues
Millions of people are still traveling for the holidays, either returning home after Christmas or heading out for end-of-year vacations. Airlines have issued travel advisories for several cities, and some passengers may be able to change flights without additional fees.
Officials Urge Caution Amid Uncertain Forecasts
As the storm system moves on, officials continue stressing safety. They say conditions could
change quickly. Because winter weather is affecting holiday travel across the country, travelers should check the status of their flights, be prepared for delays, and consider alternative transportation options.
Sources:
PBS NewsHour – Winter storm disrupts holiday travel across the Northeast and Great Lakes
Fox Weather – Next major storm system threatens Midwest, Northeast travel during holidays
Time – Thousands of Flights Delayed as Winter Storm Sweeps the U.S.
Editor’s Disclaimer:
This article is based on information available at the time of publication. Weather conditions and travel disruptions can change rapidly. Travelers are advised to monitor official forecasts, airline updates, and transportation authorities for the latest information. Presence News is not responsible for changes to schedules or conditions that occur after publication.
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