Severe winter storms are causing major disruptions to Thanksgiving travel across North America and Europe. Millions of people attempting to reach their loved ones are facing significant challenges due to extreme weather conditions. The Northeast United States is particularly hard hit, with Upstate New York and northeastern Pennsylvania experiencing over a foot of snow, including a staggering 20 inches reported in High Point, New Jersey. Flights have been delayed or canceled at major airports such as San Francisco International and Chicago O’Hare, while icy roads are leading to power outages in affected regions. In Europe, Storm Bert has led to flight cancellations at key airports and authorities are advising against non-essential travel as heavy rain and snow create hazardous conditions.

Severe Winter Storms Disrupt Thanksgiving Travel Plans Across North America and Europe

Key Takeaways

  • Severe winter storms are causing significant travel disruptions across North America and Europe ahead of Thanksgiving.
  • Major airports are experiencing substantial delays and cancellations, stranding millions of travelers.
  • Authorities are advising against non-essential travel due to hazardous conditions caused by heavy snow and icy roads.

Impact of Winter Storms on Travel in North America

Severe winter storms are causing major disruptions to travel across North America and Europe during the peak Thanksgiving season. In the United States, the Northeast faces significant challenges, with Upstate New York and northeastern Pennsylvania receiving over a foot of snow. High Point, New Jersey, reported up to 20 inches. Flight delays and cancellations plague major airports, including San Francisco International (SFO) and Chicago O'Hare (ORD), according to FlightAware data. Icy roads and falling trees led to power outages in New York and Pennsylvania. AAA estimates around 80 million people are traveling for the holiday, the highest number since
2019. However, the weather has resulted in 69 flight cancellations and 697 delays at SFO, and 14 cancellations and 540 delays at ORD on November
22. In the UK, Storm Bert has disrupted travel with heavy rain and snow, causing significant flight issues at Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW). Authorities advise against non-essential travel as major roads close and rail services cancel. Ireland faces a Status Orange weather alert due to snow and freezing temperatures. In the Netherlands, strong winds and snow have canceled over 200 flights at Schiphol Airport and disrupted public transportation. Sweden also experiences heavy snowfall and strong winds, prompting emergency warnings and urging residents to avoid non-essential travel.

Disruptions Caused by Severe Weather in Europe

Severe weather has become a consistent challenge for travelers during this holiday season. Millions of people are affected as they attempt to reconnect with loved ones across North America and Europe. The impact of severe winter storms is significant. Flights are delayed and canceled in major airports due to heavy snow in the Northeast, creating a stressful environment for those hoping to celebrate Thanksgiving. Storm Bert in the UK has compounded these issues with chaotic weather leading to similar disruptions at important travel hubs. Meanwhile, warnings echo throughout Europe as citizens confront dangerous conditions from snow and high winds. The messages from authorities emphasize caution and the need to minimize non-essential travel, underscoring a collective push towards public safety.