Air India on Sunday cancelled all flights to and from New York and Newark scheduled for 23 February, citing forecasts of a severe winter storm expected to hit large parts of the US East Coast.

The airline said heavy snowfall across New York, New Jersey, and neighbouring regions on 22 and 23 February could significantly disrupt operations, prompting precautionary cancellations. “In view of the safety, well-being and convenience of our passengers and crew, all Air India flights to and from New York and Newark have been cancelled on 23 February,” the airline said, adding that dedicated teams are assisting affected passengers with rebooking and travel support.

US carrier Delta Air Lines also announced proactive flight cancellations at major East Coast airports, including Boston, New York’s JFK and LaGuardia, to minimise disruption amid Winter Storm Hernando. Passengers were encouraged to adjust travel plans without incurring change fees.

Blizzard warnings have been issued for New York City, Long Island, and parts of New Jersey and Connecticut, marking the first blizzard alert for the city since 2017. Officials have forecast up to 1.5 feet (46 cm) of snow in the region, with wind speeds of 25–35 mph (40–56 km/h) and gusts up to 55 mph expected to affect coastal areas, raising the risk of flooding, hazardous travel, and power outages.

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Authorities have also issued winter storm watches for Washington DC and Baltimore, as heavy snow and strong winds are expected to impact much of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast through Monday.

The National Weather Service warned that the storm could be more severe than earlier estimates, with snowfall between 1 and 2 feet (30–61 cm) predicted in multiple areas, including Boston, New York City, Long Island, and coastal regions of New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts.

 

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Residents and travellers across the East Coast have been urged to take precautions and avoid non-essential travel as authorities brace for the approaching blizzard.