Key Takeaways:
- Over 1,600 flights have been canceled across the US due to severe weather conditions
- Major storms on both US coasts and the upper Midwest are disrupting travel plans during the busy post-holiday period
- JetBlue Airways Corp. and Delta Air Lines Inc. have been the most affected airlines, with over 200 cancellations each
- The severe weather is expected to continue, with snow, ice, and flooding forecasted for several regions
- Travelers are advised to check with their airlines and plan for alternative routes, as road conditions are expected to be hazardous
Introduction to the Disruptions
The post-holiday travel season has been disrupted by severe weather conditions on both US coasts and the upper Midwest. Over 1,600 flights have been canceled across the US, with JetBlue Airways Corp. and Delta Air Lines Inc. being the most affected airlines. The FlightAware website reported that JetBlue had canceled over 200 flights, followed by Delta Air Lines. The disruptions are striking at one of the busiest travel times of the year, with a record number of Americans projected to venture at least 50 miles from home during the December 20 – January 1 period.
Weather Conditions and Travel Disruptions
The severe weather conditions are causing hazardous travel conditions, with snow, ice, and flooding forecasted for several regions. The New York City area is expected to receive 6 to 9 inches of snow, with a winter storm warning in effect from Friday to Saturday. The National Weather Service has warned of treacherous road conditions, and New Jersey has declared a state of emergency, restricting certain vehicles from highways. In California, heavy rains, mudslides, and flooding have prompted road closures, and the weather service has warned of "near whiteout conditions" in mountain areas.
Airline Responses and Preparations
Airlines have been working to assist affected customers, with JetBlue canceling about 350 flights between Friday and Saturday. United Airlines Holdings Inc. has published a weather waiver to give maximum flexibility to customers, and Southwest Airlines Co. has made schedule adjustments in the Northeast. The airlines are working to minimize disruptions and provide alternative routes for travelers. However, the severe weather conditions are expected to continue, and travelers are advised to check with their airlines and plan for alternative routes.
La Niña and Weather Volatility
The severe weather conditions are attributed to the return of La Niña, a pattern marked by a cooling of Pacific waters that can disrupt economies and trigger disasters worldwide. Matt Rogers, president of the Commodity Weather Group, stated that "La Niña winters are notorious for their volatility, and we are certainly getting a healthy serving of that this holiday season." The weather models have been struggling to keep up with the changing forecast, making it challenging for airlines and travelers to plan ahead.
Regional Weather Forecasts
The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings and advisories for several regions, including the Northeast, Midwest, and California. The Midwest may see a combination of freezing rain, sleet, and snow, creating hazardous travel conditions. In California, the final system bringing bands of moderate to heavy rain will move across the state, threatening flash floods and mudslides. The weather service has warned of "near whiteout conditions" in mountain areas, making travel dangerous and likely causing delays and road closures.
Power Outages and Electricity Prices
The severe weather conditions have also led to power outages, with over 50,000 homes and businesses in California without power. The cold temperatures have increased the demand for electricity, causing spot prices in New York City to rise to $127 a megawatt-hour. The prices for US natural gas have also increased, with futures rising about 3% on Friday. The grids are not showing signs of stress, but the increased demand for electricity and natural gas is expected to continue as the severe weather conditions persist.
Conclusion and Travel Advisory
In conclusion, the severe weather conditions on both US coasts and the upper Midwest are disrupting travel plans during the busy post-holiday period. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines and plan for alternative routes, as road conditions are expected to be hazardous. The airlines are working to assist affected customers, and the National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings and advisories for several regions. It is essential to stay informed about the weather forecast and plan ahead to ensure safe travel during this period.
