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Over 4,000 flights in the U.S. were canceled on Saturday, with more than 9,400 cancellations expected Sunday, due to a massive winter storm. This storm has already knocked out power for over 160,000 utility customers across regions including Texas and poses a threat of severe snowfall and dangerous winter conditions across the eastern half of the country into the upcoming week.
Forecasters predict snow, sleet, and freezing rain, coupled with dangerously low temperatures, will impact the eastern two-thirds of the nation. President Donald Trump has labeled the event “historic,” activating federal emergency declarations in 12 states: South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Maryland, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Indiana, and West Virginia. He urged Americans to stay updated, stay warm, and take precautions.
Seventeen states along with the District of Columbia have declared weather emergencies. Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security, mentioned that thousands of residents in southern states are experiencing power outages, with utility crews working to restore electricity as quickly as possible. The outages are expected to increase, with over 160,000 customers still without power as of late Saturday, mainly in Louisiana and Texas.
The Department of Energy has issued emergency orders to assist the Electric Reliability Council of Texas in deploying backup power at key facilities, aiming to prevent widespread blackouts. The National Weather Service warns the storm will bring extensive and prolonged ice accumulation, especially in the southeastern U.S., with potential for devastating impacts.
Forecasts also indicate record-breaking cold temperatures and severe wind chills, especially into the Great Plains by Monday. Flight tracking suggests over 4,000 cancellations for Saturday flights and more than 9,400 for Sunday, with airline companies advising travelers to anticipate sudden changes. Delta Air Lines has adjusted schedules, particularly in Atlanta, Boston, and New York City, and is reallocating staff from cold-weather hubs to support de-icing and baggage operations at southern airports.
JetBlue has canceled roughly 1,000 flights through Monday, with additional cancellations likely. United Airlines has announced proactive flight cancellations in the worst-hit areas to better manage the weather situation. Meanwhile, electrical grid operators across the country are implementing increased precautions to avoid rolling blackouts.
Virginia’s Dominion Energy reports that if forecasted ice levels materialize, this could be among the largest winter events affecting their operations. Homeland Security Secretary Noem emphasized the importance of preparation, advising citizens to stock up on fuel and food to endure the extreme cold and inclement weather ahead.
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