Bomb cyclone triggers 1,300+ flight cancellations across New York; More delays expected

New York: More than 1,300 flights operating in and out of New York’s three major airports were cancelled on Tuesday after a powerful winter storm battered the US Northeast with heavy snow, strong winds and coastal flooding.

The severe weather system, described as a “historic” blizzard, swept across the region beginning Sunday, triggering widespread travel chaos and emergency measures.

JFK Airport among worst hit

At John F. Kennedy International Airport, over 400 flights were cancelled as heavy snowfall disrupted operations. According to flight tracking platform FlightAware, total cancellations at JFK alone stood at 426 for the day.

Despite the disruptions, the airport remains operational, though delays and cancellations are expected to continue.

On Monday, more than 5,706 flights within, into or out of the United States were cancelled, reflecting the broader impact of the storm nationwide.

What to expect on Wednesday

Cancellations and delays could extend into Wednesday, with several major airlines issuing winter travel waivers for affected airports, according to reports.

Passengers are strongly advised to check directly with their airlines for updated flight information and monitor airport websites before heading out.

State of emergency declared

Authorities declared a state of emergency for New York City, Long Island and Westchester County ahead of the storm’s arrival on Sunday morning. The declaration allowed officials to mobilise resources quickly as snowfall intensified and coastal flooding risks increased.

Latest weather update

The powerful “bomb cyclone” has now moved toward Nova Scotia, Canada, where heavy snow and strong wind warnings remain in place.

Meanwhile, another fast-moving system known as an Alberta Clipper is forecast to bring additional snow and icy conditions to the Great Lakes and parts of the Northeast by midweek. Although this system is expected to produce lighter snowfall, freezing temperatures are likely to persist throughout the week, with frost overnight and daytime temperatures hovering just above freezing.

With weather conditions still unstable, travellers across the Northeast are urged to:

• Check flight status before leaving for the airport
• Monitor airline advisories and waiver policies
• Allow extra travel time
• Prepare for possible last-minute schedule changes.