Severe Winter Storm Causes Mass Flight Cancellations Across Northeast

Sat Dec 27 2025 17:54:31 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A significant winter storm has led to over 1,500 flight cancellations and dangerous travel conditions in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions, coinciding with the busy holiday travel period.

A winter weather system has impacted the Northeast and Great Lakes, leading to hazardous travel conditions and over 1,500 flight cancellations as of Saturday morning. New York City reported nearly three inches of snow, which fell short of forecasts, while state officials have declared emergencies in New York and New Jersey. Travelers are advised to avoid roads as conditions worsen.

BOSTON — A severe winter storm has resulted in extensive flight cancellations and delays across the Northeast and Great Lakes regions during the hectic holiday travel period between Christmas and New Year's.

As of Saturday morning, New York City experienced just under three inches of snow, approximately half of the predicted amounts, which caused disruptions in air travel with at least 1,500 flights canceled from Friday evening into Saturday, according to FlightAware.

Newark Liberty International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, and LaGuardia Airport issued snow warnings via the social media platform X, informing travelers that weather conditions might lead to further flight interruptions.

The National Weather Service has issued warnings for hazardous travel conditions extending from the Great Lakes region through the northern mid-Atlantic and southern New England, noting potential risks of tree damage and power outages. However, forecasters predict that the storm will weaken by Saturday morning.

In anticipation of the storm, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency covering more than half of the state. New Jersey's acting Governor, Tahesha Way, also declared a state of emergency statewide due to “dangerous weather conditions including heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain.”

“This storm will cause dangerous road conditions and impact holiday travel,” Governor Way emphasized. “We are urging travelers to avoid travel during the storm and allow crews to tend to the roads. Drivers should plan their travel accordingly, monitor conditions and road closures, and follow all safety protocols.”