A powerful winter storm named Devin has turned the US holiday travel rush into chaos. Heavy snow and ice have forced major airlines to cancel and delay thousands of flights. Airports, highways and state authorities are struggling to cope as millions of travellers face disruption during the peak holiday season.
What is Storm Devin?
Storm Devin is a powerful winter weather system impacting large parts of the United States, especially the Northeast, Great Lakes, and Mid-Atlantic regions. It is bringing heavy snowfall, icy conditions, and strong winds, making air and road travel dangerous.
Weather agencies warned that the storm could dump several inches of snow in major cities, reduce visibility, and create hazardous conditions during one of the busiest holiday travel periods in the US.
Winter Storm Devin Hits Air Travel Hard
Winter storm Devin brought dangerous weather and hazardous conditions across much of the United States, especially in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions. The National Weather Service issued widespread winter storm warnings, forecasting heavy snow and icy roads that would make travel risky over the busy holiday weekend.
As of Friday afternoon, airlines had cancelled more than 1,800 flights and delayed over 22,000 others nationwide, according to flight-tracking data from FlightAware.
Major Airports Struggle With Cancellations and Delays
The New York City area, including John F. Kennedy, Newark Liberty and LaGuardia airports, was among the hardest hit. More than half of all cancellations and delays occurred at those hubs, as travellers’ flights were scrapped or pushed back due to conditions on the ground.
JetBlue Airways reported the highest number of cancellations, with around 350 flights grounded in the Northeast, where the airline has a strong presence. Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines and Republic Airways also faced significant disruptions.
States Declare Emergencies and Restrict Traffic
In response to the storm, New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency to free up resources and manage the expected snow and ice. Governors urged people to stay off roads and allow snow crews to clear major highways.
Pennsylvania and other states also imposed commercial vehicle restrictions on key interstates to reduce the risk of crashes and keep emergency lanes open.
Weather Forecast Worsens Travel Conditions
Forecasters warned that Devin would continue into Saturday, bringing 4-8 inches of snow to parts of upstate New York, Long Island and the Tri-State area. Some regions could receive even more, which would slow down road travel and make flying risky.
The storm isn’t just limited to snow. Ice and sleet are expected in several areas, creating slick roads and low visibility that make both driving and flying perilous.
Airlines Try to Help Stranded Passengers
Several major carriers have waived change fees to help travellers change plans without extra cost. American Airlines, United and JetBlue confirmed they would allow passengers to rebook flights affected by the storm.
Despite the waivers, many travellers still face long waits at airports and uncertainty about when their flights will resume.
How does This Affect Holiday Travel?
The timing could not be worse. The period just after Christmas is one of the busiest travel windows in the US, with millions flying to see family or return home. With so many cancellations and delays, hotels near airports and rental car desks are crowded with stranded passengers.
The storm also complicates ground travel. Snow-covered highways and ice patches have prompted officials to warn people to avoid unnecessary travel until weather conditions improve.
What Happens Next?
Meteorologists say the storm will linger through Saturday, and the risk of additional cancellations and delays remains high. Some flights already scheduled for Saturday were also cancelled early in the day due to lingering conditions.
Officials continue to stress caution and urge travellers to check flight statuses before heading to the airport. Residents in heavily affected areas are reminded to prepare for deep snow and ice, which could slow recovery efforts even after the storm ends.
