Thousands of holiday travelers in the United States faced disruption as winter storm Devin swept across the country on December 26, 2025. According to FlightAware, over 1,500 flights were cancelled and nearly 7,000 delayed by 4pm Eastern Time, affecting major hubs including New York’s JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports. The US National Weather Service issued widespread storm warnings across the Midwest and Northeast, with New York City expecting up to 10 inches of snow—the most in four years. The storm has also brought heavy rain and flooding to California, highlighting the growing challenges of winter travel during peak holiday season.
Key Highlights:
Over 1,581 flights cancelled and 6,883 delayed nationwide.
More than 40 million Americans under winter storm warnings.
Snowfall in NYC expected to reach 10 inches overnight.
JetBlue and Delta Air Lines among top carriers cancelling flights.
Southern California faces wettest Christmas season in 54 years.
Flight Disruptions and Weather Impact
Winter storm Devin began affecting the US late Thursday, December 25, 2025, originating in the Midwest before moving northeast. FlightAware, the world’s largest flight tracking data company, reported that 1,581 flights “within, into or out of the US” were cancelled and 6,883 delayed as of 4pm Eastern Time on Friday. New York airports—JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark—bore the brunt of disruptions, accounting for more than half of cancellations. JetBlue cancelled 225 flights, followed by Delta with 212. The National Weather Service warned of hazardous travel conditions and heavy snowfall, prompting many airlines to preemptively cancel flights to ensure passenger safety.
Reactions and Public Sentiment
Reactions to the storm have been mixed, with travelers expressing frustration and concern over holiday plans. Social media posts highlighted crowded airports and extended waiting times. Some travelers praised airlines for proactive cancellations prioritizing safety. Media analysts note that cancellations during peak holiday travel are inevitable but disrupt millions, with widespread debate over airline preparedness and storm forecasting accuracy. Overall sentiment reflects both support for safety measures and backlash from passengers facing travel delays and uncertainty.
Why Winter Storm Devin Matters
Winter storm Devin is significant not only for its immediate travel disruption but also for its wider cultural and economic impact. Millions of Americans rely on air travel during the holiday season, making widespread cancellations a major logistical and financial concern. The storm also underscores the vulnerability of transportation infrastructure to extreme weather events, a growing challenge in an era of climate volatility. Cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago are bracing for significant snowfall and icy conditions, affecting commuter and freight networks. Analysts say repeated winter disruptions may prompt long-term policy changes in airport operations and storm response protocols.
The storm’s effect on California’s West Coast adds another dimension, with atmospheric river rains causing floods and mudslides. Firefighters rescued over 100 people in Los Angeles County, demonstrating the direct human impact. Media coverage highlights both safety responses and the strain on emergency services during peak holiday periods.
Historical Context and Patterns
Winter storm Devin follows a pattern of major US winter storms impacting holiday travel. In 2022, a similar storm disrupted flights and caused widespread travel chaos. Analysts note that storms of this scale have increased in frequency, driven by shifting weather patterns and climate change. Previous incidents at major airports show consistent airline cancellations when heavy snow and icy conditions are forecast. For more on US storm patterns, see our Meteorological Insights.
Conclusion: What Happens Next
Travelers should expect ongoing delays and cancellations through the weekend as snow and Arctic blasts continue. Airlines may adjust flight schedules while emergency services remain on alert for flooding and traffic hazards. Media analysts predict that while travel disruptions may gradually ease, winter storm Devin highlights the need for improved winter preparedness in US aviation and urban planning.
FAQ Section
Q1: How many flights were affected by winter storm Devin? Over 1,500 flights were cancelled and nearly 7,000 delayed as of December 26, 2025, affecting major US airports including JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark.
Q2: Which US states faced the most severe weather? The Midwest and Northeast were hardest hit, with New York City expecting up to 10 inches of snow. California also faced heavy rainfall and flooding.
Q3: Are airlines offering refunds or rebooking? Most major airlines, including JetBlue, Delta, and American, are allowing passengers to rebook or receive refunds due to storm-related cancellations.
Q4: What safety measures are recommended? Travelers should check flight updates, avoid non-essential travel, and follow local advisories for snow and flooding hazards.
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