By NOAA Photo Library
Thousands of flights across the United States have been cancelled or delayed as the north-eastern region braces for a powerful winter storm striking at the height of the busy holiday travel period.
By Friday night, around 1,600 flights nationwide had been cancelled and more than 7,400 others delayed, according to data from flight-tracking service FlightAware.
Airports in the New York metropolitan area have been among the hardest hit, including John F Kennedy International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport and LaGuardia Airport. Other major hubs experiencing significant disruption include Boston, Chicago and Toronto in neighbouring Canada.
The US National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning beginning at 16:00 local time (21:00 GMT) on Friday and lasting until 13:00 on Saturday. Forecasters warned that parts of New York City and southern Connecticut could see snowfall totals of up to nine inches (23 centimetres).
Several major airlines pre-emptively cancelled flights in response to the forecast. JetBlue Airways scrapped 229 flights, while Delta Air Lines cancelled 241. Republic Airways and Southwest Airlines grounded 180 and 151 flights respectively. American Airlines and United Airlines each cancelled around 100 scheduled services.
Airports took to social media to urge passengers to check directly with their airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules. Meteorologists warned that the heaviest snowfall was expected between 18:00 local time (23:00 GMT) and midnight.
Motorists were cautioned about dangerous road conditions, with authorities advising drivers to carry emergency supply kits in case of breakdowns or prolonged delays.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, but said those who must travel should exercise caution. “Plan ahead, take it slow, and leave plenty of time to get to where you need to go safely,” she said.
Governors in neighbouring New Jersey and Connecticut issued similar warnings, advising residents to remain vigilant as the storm moved through the region.
The snowfall marks the second major winter weather event of the season for New York City. Earlier this month, on 14 December, the city was covered by several inches of snow.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams encouraged commuters who drove to work on Friday to leave earlier than usual or consider using public transportation for their return journeys.
City officials said snow ploughs had been deployed and were prepared to begin clearing streets once snowfall reached two inches, as crews readied themselves to manage what is expected to be a challenging night for travel across the region.
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