Flights nationwide came to a halt on Tuesday due to anticipated severe thunderstorms set to hit the East Coast, potentially disrupting travel plans for millions just before the holiday weekend.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported ground stops and delays at several major airports, including Newark Liberty International and LaGuardia in the New York City region, as well as in Boston, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and Orlando.
The National Weather Service (NWS) predicted scattered storms, heavy rainfall, and possible flooding in the northeast, with expectations of up to three inches of rain along the East Coast.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (iStock)
Collectively, five airports logged about 600 cancellations and 1,900 delays, according to data from FlightAware.
LaGuardia Airport had about 180 flights canceled and 400 delayed, according to the site.
Tuesday’s expected storms come as many people are flying out of major airport hubs or driving ahead of the July 4 holiday weekend.
Passengers move through a JFK airport terminal. (AP Photo)
A flood watch was in effect for the Washington, D.C., area, and heavy rains were expected in New York City.
