Snowstorm Disrupts Northeast US Travel and Triggers Arctic Freeze: Thousands of Flights Delayed, Dangerous Road Conditions Persist

Published on December 16, 2025

A powerful weekend storm pummeled the Northeast United States, bringing heavy snow, plunging temperatures, and widespread disruptions to air travel and road conditions. From New York to New Jersey, this marked the first significant snowfall of the season, creating treacherous conditions for travelers across the region. Meanwhile, the Pacific Northwest continues to battle catastrophic flooding, with heavy rains forecasted to exacerbate the situation.

The storm began on Saturday, dropping up to several inches of snow in the New York City and New Jersey metro areas. The snowfall caused slippery roads and heavily impacted airport operations, including more than 1,000 flight delays and over 100 cancellations, according to FlightAware. As temperatures plummeted, the situation only worsened, with cities experiencing arctic conditions that sent the wind chill to dangerous levels, reaching as low as -22°F (-30°C) in some areas.

Heavy Snow and Dangerous Travel Conditions Persist in the Northeast

In the wake of the storm, state agencies in New Jersey and Pennsylvania advised people to limit travel. Crews worked overnight to clear snow from roads, including bike lanes, while salt spreaders and plows continued to treat major highways. As of Sunday, authorities were still monitoring conditions closely, especially in areas where the snow had compacted and turned into icy patches, increasing the danger for drivers.

The state of Pennsylvania enacted temporary speed limits of 45 mph (72 kph) on interstates as a precautionary measure. The U.S. National Weather Service issued several advisories for the region, warning residents to expect colder-than-usual temperatures and more hazardous conditions due to ongoing snow accumulation and wind gusts.

Meanwhile, in New York, residents were forced to contend with slick streets, with the snowstorm making walking and driving treacherous in the city. On Sunday, snow continued to fall over parts of New England, further complicating efforts to restore normalcy and transport throughout the region.

Flight Disruptions and Airport Delays Affect Thousands of Travelers

The severe winter weather caused major disruptions at airports in the Northeast, with over 1,000 flights delayed and more than 100 cancellations across several key airports. The major transportation hubs, including New York’s LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy International Airports, as well as Philadelphia International, saw significant operational slowdowns. Airlines scrambled to re-route flights, leading to confusion and frustration among passengers, many of whom were stranded for hours due to the ongoing delays.

As the storm weakened by Sunday night, airport authorities began working to resume normal operations, though many travelers were still facing long wait times and limited service. With the storm continuing to affect parts of the Northeast, air travel remained unpredictable, prompting both airlines and passengers to brace for further complications.

The Midwest Faces Its Coldest Morning of the Season Amid Storm’s Aftermath

The arctic cold that swept across the Midwest added to the storm’s reach. Sunday morning marked the coldest day of the season so far, with temperatures at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport dipping to -10°F (-23°C). In some communities, temperatures plunged as low as -22°F (-30°C), adding to the challenges faced by those already dealing with the aftermath of the storm.

Meteorologists have warned that these temperatures, combined with high winds, will create dangerous wind chills and pose serious risks for anyone outside in the affected areas. The National Weather Service issued wind chill warnings, emphasizing the need for residents to take precautions and limit exposure to the cold.

Pacific Northwest Braces for More Rain Amid Catastrophic Flooding

While the Northeast recovered from the snowstorm, the Pacific Northwest is still dealing with severe flooding and mudslides caused by persistent rain. Over the past few days, catastrophic flooding has forced thousands of people to evacuate their homes in Washington and Oregon. Authorities have been working around the clock to provide shelter and assist with evacuations, but more heavy rain is expected in the region, potentially exacerbating the already devastating situation.

In some areas, floodwaters have reached dangerous levels, sweeping away homes and displacing entire communities. The National Weather Service has warned of additional rainstorms, with more flooding and mudslides likely. As of Sunday, the region’s emergency response teams were focused on helping residents return to their homes safely and restoring vital infrastructure to those stranded.

Looking Ahead: Travel and Safety Precautions Amid Ongoing Weather Events

With more adverse weather expected in the coming days, travelers across the Northeast, Midwest, and Pacific Northwest are urged to take extra precautions. For those traveling in the Northeast, the risk of icy roads remains high, so limiting travel is recommended unless absolutely necessary. Airports and roadways are expected to remain busy with ongoing recovery efforts as snow continues to affect parts of New England.

For those in the Pacific Northwest, the ongoing flood risks remain a concern, and residents are advised to stay alert for updated warnings and evacuation orders. As the storm weakens and cold air settles in, the travel landscape in the U.S. will continue to shift, with travelers needing to be adaptable and prepared for shifting conditions.