A powerful snowstorm struck large areas of the southern United States, bringing air traffic to a near standstill, with more than 2,400 flights canceled, affecting tens of thousands of travelers and disrupting their travel plans in one of the worst weather disturbances the region has seen this season.
The region's major airports were the hardest hit. At Charlotte Douglas International in North Carolina, a key hub for American Airlines, more than 1,800 flights were canceled. Airport authorities announced a mobilization of their staff, deploying a 300-strong team to work around the clock clearing snow from runways and internal roads to ensure the safety of the remaining limited operations.
In neighboring Georgia, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport , one of the world's busiest airports, announced the cancellation of more than 600 flights. This major disruption at Atlanta's airport has far-reaching consequences, given its vital role as a hub for both domestic and international flights, thus having a ripple effect on the entire U.S. aviation network.
Background of the storm and its climatic impact
The US National Weather Service has warned that this disturbance is caused by an intensifying coastal low-pressure system, leading to heavy snowfall and strong winds, particularly in North and South Carolina. Conditions are worsening as a powerful surge of frigid polar air pushes in, causing temperatures to plummet to record lows in these areas, reaching as low as -33°C in some parts of West Virginia. The frigid air is also expected to reach the typically warmer regions of South Florida.
Widespread repercussions on infrastructure and daily life
The storm's impact wasn't limited to air travel; it extended to all aspects of life. Heavy snow and ice closed numerous highways and bridges, making road travel hazardous. Strong winds and heavy snowfall also caused power outages affecting thousands of homes and businesses. Local authorities in the affected states issued warnings urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, while schools and government offices in several counties were closed as a precautionary measure to ensure everyone's safety.
