What's happened
A powerful winter storm swept the US Northeast from Friday night into Saturday, dropping 2 to 10 inches of snow from upstate New York to Long Island and parts of Connecticut. New York City received 2 to 4 inches, with Central Park reporting 4.3 inches. The storm caused over 14,000 domestic flight cancellations and delays, mainly at New York area airports, amid one of the busiest travel periods of the year. States of emergency were declared in New York and New Jersey, with hazardous road conditions and airport disruptions reported. The storm began to ease Saturday morning, with flurries tapering off by afternoon.
What's behind the headline?
Impact on Travel and Infrastructure
The winter storm Devin has exposed vulnerabilities in US travel infrastructure during peak holiday periods. Over 14,000 domestic flights were canceled or delayed, primarily at New York's JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports, highlighting the challenges of managing air traffic amid severe weather. Airlines preemptively canceled flights to avoid cascading operational failures, but passengers faced long waits and uncertainty.
Regional Disparities and Preparedness
While New York City received 2 to 4 inches of snow, some areas in upstate New York and the Catskills saw up to 10 inches, creating uneven impacts. States of emergency in New York and New Jersey facilitated mobilization of resources, including deployment of over 1,600 plow trucks and 700 million pounds of salt in NYC. However, reports of crashes and spinouts in Minnesota indicate that the Midwest also faced significant challenges.
Broader Weather Patterns
The storm was part of a larger system bringing blizzard conditions to the Great Lakes and freezing rain to New England, with an Arctic blast following. Meanwhile, California experienced its wettest Christmas season in 54 years, with flooding and mudslides causing fatalities and property damage. This juxtaposition underscores the increasing variability and extremity of US weather patterns.
Forecast and Future Implications
The storm began to ease by Saturday afternoon, but the disruption during a critical travel window will have lasting effects on airline schedules and traveler confidence. The event underscores the need for improved forecasting, infrastructure resilience, and contingency planning to mitigate the impact of severe weather on transportation networks. Travelers should remain vigilant during winter months and plan for potential disruptions.
What the papers say
The New York Times detailed the storm's impact on Minnesota, reporting "at least 47 delayed and 194 canceled flights" at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport and warning residents to avoid travel due to hazardous conditions (Johnny Diaz, NYT). Business Insider UK highlighted the scale of flight disruptions, noting "more than 11,000 flight delays and 1,000 cancellations" on Saturday alone, with New York City airports issuing travel advisories (Business Insider UK). The Independent emphasized the storm's timing during one of the busiest travel periods, reporting "more than 14,000 domestic flights were canceled or delayed by mid-morning Saturday," and quoting Southwest Airlines on the necessity of early cancellations to prevent operational failures (Graig Graziosi, The Independent). Arab News provided a human perspective from New York City, describing the snow-covered streets and travelers' reactions, while also noting state emergency declarations (Arab News). Sky News covered the broader geographic impact, including California's severe flooding and avalanche injuries, illustrating the storm's nationwide reach (Bethany Minelle, Sky News). These varied perspectives collectively portray a multifaceted disruption affecting millions, with a focus on travel chaos, emergency responses, and the broader meteorological context.
How we got here
The storm, named Devin by the US National Weather Service, followed a period of unsettled weather and arrived during the peak holiday travel season. It brought heavy snow, ice, and blizzard conditions across the Midwest and Northeast, disrupting flights and road travel. New York City and New Jersey declared states of emergency to prepare for hazardous conditions. The storm was part of a broader pattern of winter weather affecting both US coasts, with California experiencing heavy rain and flooding earlier in the week.
Go deeper
- How did the winter storm affect flights in New York City?
- What emergency measures were taken in New York and New Jersey?
- What was the impact of the storm on road safety in the Midwest?
Common question
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Why Is This Winter So Extreme? Causes of Early Snow and Cold Snaps
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Why Is Winter Weather Disrupting Holidays in the US and UK?
This winter, holiday plans across the US and UK are facing unexpected challenges due to unusual weather patterns. Heavy rain, flooding, and cold temperatures are impacting travel and celebrations. Curious about what's causing these disruptions and what to expect this holiday season? Below, we answer common questions about this winter's weather and its effects on holiday plans.
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UK Christmas Weather: Will It Snow or Stay Cold?
This Christmas, the UK is experiencing a notably colder spell, with temperatures dropping below freezing in some areas. While many hope for a white Christmas, current forecasts suggest dry, frosty conditions with little chance of snow for most regions. Curious about what this means for your holiday plans? Below, we answer common questions about this year's UK Christmas weather, including the likelihood of snow, how cold it will get, and what atmospheric factors are influencing the weather this season.
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Why Is the UK Experiencing Such Cold Winters?
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How Severe Is the Northeast Storm Right Now?
A major winter storm is currently impacting the Northeast US, bringing heavy snow, ice, and travel disruptions. With over 60 million Americans under weather alerts, many are wondering just how severe the storm is and what it means for their safety and travel plans. Below, we answer common questions about the storm's current severity, affected areas, safety tips, and what to expect in the coming days.
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What Are the Latest News Stories People Are Talking About?
Stay updated with the most talked-about news stories today. From media controversies and severe winter storms to high-profile criminal cases and inspiring stories of resilience, this page covers the key questions people are asking about current events. Find out what’s happening, how communities are responding, and what these stories mean for you.
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Why Are There So Many Winter Storms Hitting US and Canada Right Now?
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