Over 2200 flights have been cancelled at major airports in Chicago, Boston, and New York as the heavy snowfall moved in. Up to an additional 1000 flights are expected to be scratched today according to Flightaware.com.
The storm dubbed “Winter Storm Hercules” has already resulted in the closure of New York’s JFK Airport.
JFL has suspended flight operations for arriving domestic and international flights until further notice. The airport will remain open. Please check with your carrier before departing.
The governors of both New York and New Jersey have declared states of emergency, and are urging people to stay indoors.
Many schools and businesses are closed today amid fears the storm will worsen.
For New York, The National Weather Service is forecasting dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills tonight through Saturday morning.
“We are focused like a laser on protecting this city,” states newly sworn-in Bill de Blasio, New York City Mayor. The civic government is calling for people to stay indoors.
“These conditions are dangerous to health and can worsen pre-existing medical conditions. Limit your time outdoors and dress in layers. Be sure to check on neighbors, particularly the elderly and medically frail. Report loss of heat/hot water, and un-domiciled individuals in need of sheltering and/or assistance by calling 3-1-1.”
Resident across Winter Storm Hercules’ path are asked to “Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by clearing snow from exhaust pipes before starting car engines, avoid running cars in enclosed spaces, and clear snow from the vents of combustion appliances. Also, remove flammable items such as clothing from heat sources and space heaters”.
Never heat your home with a stove or oven, and do not use kerosene or oil-burning heaters indoors.
“We’re going to see a lot of snow and a lot of wind,” said Jason Tuell, of the US National Weather Service. “We’re concerned about whiteout conditions possibly tonight with the blowing and drifting snow.”
Outreach teams were working to get homeless people off the streets in New York City and Boston.
