A massive storm system sweeping across the eastern United States is wreaking havoc on air travel, producing blizzard conditions across the Midwest and Great Lakes while unleashing severe thunderstorms, strong winds and a potential tornado threat along the East Coast.
As of 6:00 p.m. EST, more than 5,000 flights had been cancelled and over 9,824 delayed within, into or out of the US, according to FlightAware. The widespread disruptions are creating ripple effects across airline networks, leaving travellers scrambling to adjust their plans.
O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, where a blizzard warning is in effect, reported the most cancellations, 544, alongside 1,064 delays. LaGuardia Airport had more than 400 cancelled flights and over 250 delays, while Charlotte Douglas International saw more than 380 cancellations and 430 delays.
Other major hubs reporting disruptions include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Orlando International Airport, highlighting the storm’s broad impact on US air travel.
Major carriers were heavily affected. American Airlines reported more than 500 cancellations, while Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines each had over 400. Airlines have issued travel waivers, allowing passengers to change flights without penalty as the storm continues to disrupt schedules.
Some areas have already seen record-breaking snowfall. Green Bay, Wisconsin, received 14.8 inches — its snowiest day in 137 years — while Spalding, Michigan, reported around 26 inches of snow.
The East Coast is experiencing damaging winds up to 80 mph and a potential for tornadoes from the Mid-Atlantic into the Carolinas.
The disruptions come during a busy spring travel period, with many travellers heading out for vacations and school holidays, including March Break in parts of Canada. Airlines and airports are advising passengers to check flight statuses and allow extra time at security, as delays and cancellations are expected to continue into Tuesday (17MAR).
