Snowstorm Wreaks Havoc on New York, Philadelphia, and Newark Airports, Stranding Thousands of Holiday Travelers – Here’s What You Need to Know

Published on December 26, 2025

A powerful winter storm has struck the New York area, severely affecting travel during one of the busiest holiday seasons. The snowstorm, which began impacting the region on December 23, 2025, led to the cancellation of 400 flights and caused widespread travel delays. This has left thousands of holiday travelers stranded across the city’s major airports, including LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather warning for New York City and surrounding areas, predicting snow accumulation of up to eight inches by Friday evening. As temperatures remained below freezing, the storm created dangerous conditions, both in the air and on the ground. Travelers have been urged to be cautious, as the snowstorm not only caused flight cancellations but also made roads hazardous due to icy conditions.

Airports Hit Hard by Winter Weather

LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark Airports are facing the brunt of the chaos, with hundreds of flights either cancelled or delayed. FlightAware data indicated that airlines began to cancel flights overnight on Thursday as snow began to intensify. The airlines that were most affected include American Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue.

These cancellations have disrupted travel plans for many passengers, particularly those flying in or out of New York during the peak holiday season. The storm’s intensity continued to worsen on Friday afternoon, with snow expected to last through Saturday morning. The city’s airports have reported that the conditions will likely delay operations even once the storm has passed, as crews work to de-ice planes and clear runways.

Travel Tips for Those Affected by the New York Snowstorm

For travelers affected by the storm, here are some essential tips to navigate the disruptions:

1. Stay informed: Keep checking flight status updates through airlines’ websites or flight tracking apps like FlightAware.
2. Prepare for delays: If you’re traveling from the affected airports, expect significant delays and arrive early to prepare for the extended processing time.
3. Avoid driving if possible: Local authorities are urging residents and travelers to avoid unnecessary trips, as roads are expected to be icy and dangerous.
4. Dress warmly: With temperatures below freezing, it’s crucial to wear appropriate winter gear, especially if you’re planning to be outside or at the airport for an extended period.

What’s Next for the Region?

The storm’s impact isn’t limited to the New York metropolitan area. Neighboring areas, including Philadelphia, Southern Connecticut, and parts of New Jersey, are also under winter weather advisories. The snowstorm will continue moving east, bringing freezing rain and blustery conditions to parts of the Mid-Atlantic by Saturday.

Despite the improving weather forecast after the storm passes, the dangerous road conditions are expected to persist for several days, causing further travel delays. Local authorities have mobilized emergency services, with road crews and sanitation staff working around the clock to ensure roads are clear for emergency vehicles and travelers.

How to Cope with Snowstorm Cancellations and Delays

If your flight is among the cancelled flights, follow these steps:

• Contact your airline: Airlines are often flooded with requests during such disruptions, so try to reach out early to rebook your flight or inquire about compensation options.
• Explore alternative airports: If you’re in the New York area, consider rebooking through alternative airports like Philadelphia or Newark, which may have fewer cancellations due to the weather.
• Stay patient: This is a high-volume travel period, so patience is key. Expect longer wait times at check-ins and security. If you’re traveling for a holiday, it’s important to allow for extra time.

The Broader Impact of the Snowstorm on U.S. Travel

The ongoing storm is part of a larger winter weather system that is impacting the northeastern U.S. Flights across the Northeast, including in New England, Washington, and Philadelphia, have seen delays and cancellations as well. Authorities continue to monitor the weather developments, especially with a cold front expected to bring freezing rain to other parts of the region.

As the storm continues to wreak havoc on air travel, travelers are encouraged to check with local news channels and their airlines for the latest updates and plan their travel accordingly.

In conclusion, the New York snowstorm has severely disrupted travel across the region, with hundreds of flight cancellations and delays at JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports. As travelers contend with harsh winter weather, it’s crucial to stay informed, remain flexible, and prioritize safety. Although the storm is expected to taper off by Saturday, the impact on holiday travel will likely continue for several days.