What's happened
A major winter storm has caused over 13,500 flight cancellations across the US since Saturday, with the highest disruptions at Dallas-Fort Worth and Atlanta. Heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain threaten millions, impacting major airports including JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark. Airlines are rebooking passengers and offering refunds.
What's behind the headline?
The storm's wide reach makes it a significant challenge for airlines, which typically manage localized weather disruptions more easily. The scale of cancellations—over 13,500 since Saturday—indicates the storm's severity and the airlines' cautious approach. Major hubs like Dallas-Fort Worth and Atlanta are hardest hit, with American Airlines and Delta Airlines canceling hundreds of flights. The widespread cancellations reflect the storm's unprecedented breadth, which complicates rerouting and rescheduling efforts. This event underscores the vulnerability of US air travel to extreme weather, which will likely lead to increased operational costs and passenger inconvenience. The storm's impact will persist until weather conditions improve, and airlines will need to adapt their contingency plans for future similar events, especially as climate change may increase the frequency of such severe storms.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that over 13,500 flights have been canceled since Saturday, with the storm affecting nearly 180 million people across the US. Business Insider UK highlights the ongoing disruptions at major airports like Boston Logan and Dallas-Fort Worth, noting that American Airlines was the worst affected carrier. The Independent emphasizes the storm's vast reach, affecting more than half the US population and causing the highest cancellation rates since the pandemic began. All sources agree that the storm's severity has led to widespread travel chaos, with airlines offering rebooking options and refunds, and airports advising travelers to check flight statuses before heading out.
How we got here
The storm, forecasted to bring 1-2 feet of snow from the southern Rockies to New England, has been intensifying since Friday. Airlines preemptively canceled flights in affected regions, especially in Texas and the Southeast, due to the broad and severe weather system impacting travel nationwide.
Go deeper
Common question
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How is the US weather impacting travel today?
A major winter storm is causing widespread disruptions across the US, affecting millions of travelers. With heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain sweeping from the South to the East Coast, many flights are canceled and travel plans are in chaos. If you're wondering how this storm might affect your trip or what steps to take, read on for the latest updates and helpful tips.
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How Do Major Weather Events Impact Daily Life and Safety?
Severe weather events like storms and winter blizzards can disrupt daily routines and pose serious safety risks. From canceled flights to dangerous road conditions, understanding how these weather events affect us is crucial. Below, we answer common questions about weather warnings, safety tips, and how cities prepare for extreme conditions to keep you informed and safe.
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Will My Flight Be Canceled Due to the Storm?
Severe winter storms across the US have led to thousands of flight cancellations, especially at major airports like Dallas-Fort Worth and Atlanta. Travelers are wondering if their flights will be affected and what they can do to stay safe. Below, you'll find answers to common questions about current travel disruptions and how to navigate them.
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