Snow in New York. Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK The severe winter storm hitting the East Coast of the United States continues to paralyze aviation in the region and keep people stranded inside their homes in many areas. So far, US media are reporting more than 5,000 flight cancellations to Newark, JFK, and Boston airports, where the largest number of cancellations have been recorded
The storm hit on Monday, affecting millions of people from North Carolina to Maine. Moreover, some areas in Rhode Island and Massachusetts recorded nearly 83cm of snow, while New York’s Central Park saw more than 48 cm, according to the National Weather Service. Over 600,000 homes and businesses suffered power outages, while heavy snowfall made travel nearly impossible in parts of New York state. Rhode Island and Connecticut announced travel bans. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey also announced a series of restrictions.
New York City's travel ban brought the city to a near standstill until midday (February 23).
According to the National Weather Service, the storm is not over yet. "Heavy snow and strong winds will continue into Tuesday morning across Maine as the major winter storm departs off the coast. Blizzard Warnings and Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect. Strong winds and dry conditions will promote elevated to critical fire weather conditions across southeast Colorado into the southern High Plains Tuesday."