Jacksonville, FL, January 25, 2026
A powerful winter storm has caused widespread flight cancellations and significant disruptions in air travel across the United States. The storm, affecting major airports since January 23, has led to over 13,500 cancellations, marking one of the most significant disruptions since the pandemic. Airlines have issued waivers, and numerous states, including Washington D.C., have declared states of emergency. Passengers are advised to stay updated about their flights and understand their rights concerning cancellations.
Massive Winter Storm Disrupts U.S. Air Travel
Jacksonville, FL – A powerful winter storm has severely impacted air travel across the United States, leading to widespread flight cancellations and significant disruptions at major airports. The storm, which began affecting the country on January 23, 2026, has resulted in over 13,500 flight cancellations since Saturday, with approximately 9,600 cancellations on Sunday alone. This marks one of the most significant travel disruptions since the pandemic.
Severe Airport Disruptions
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport reported that nearly all of its departing flights scheduled for Sunday—414 flights, or 97%—were canceled. Other major airport hubs, including Dallas-Fort Worth, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport, also experienced significant disruptions.
Airline Cancellations and Waivers
Major airlines have been heavily affected, with American Airlines canceling over 1,400 flights for Sunday, Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines each reporting about 1,000 cancellations, United Airlines over 800, and JetBlue more than 560 cancellations. In response, airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, United, and JetBlue have issued waivers, allowing passengers to change or cancel their flights without incurring additional fees. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for specific rebooking options and policies.
States of Emergency Declared
In anticipation of the storm’s impact, at least 14 states and Washington, D.C., have declared states of emergency. The storm is expected to bring severe snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, threatening widespread power outages and hazardous travel conditions. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed through local authorities and avoid non-essential travel during the storm’s peak.
Passenger Rights and Recommendations
Travelers whose flights have been canceled are legally entitled to full refunds, including for non-refundable tickets and any unused add-ons. Airlines are not required to cover meals or lodging during weather-related disruptions. Passengers are encouraged to monitor weather forecasts, check airline travel alerts, and consider alternative travel arrangements if necessary.
Background Context
The January 2026 North American Blizzard, unofficially named Winter Storm Fern, is a major developing winter storm expected to affect roughly 220 million people across regions stretching from Mexico and Texas to northeastern Maine and into Canada. The storm has prompted widespread travel disruptions, including the cancellation of thousands of flights and significant impacts on transportation infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the current status of flight cancellations due to the winter storm?
- As of January 25, 2026, over 13,500 flights have been canceled across the U.S. since Saturday, with approximately 9,600 cancellations on Sunday alone. This marks one of the most significant travel disruptions since the pandemic.
- Which airports are experiencing the most significant disruptions?
- Major airport hubs, including Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Dallas-Fort Worth, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport, have experienced significant disruptions.
- What should passengers do if their flight is canceled?
- Passengers whose flights have been canceled are legally entitled to full refunds, including for non-refundable tickets and any unused add-ons. Airlines are not required to cover meals or lodging during weather-related disruptions. Passengers are encouraged to monitor weather forecasts, check airline travel alerts, and consider alternative travel arrangements if necessary.
- How are airlines responding to the storm’s impact?
- Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, United, and JetBlue have issued waivers, allowing passengers to change or cancel their flights without incurring additional fees. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for specific rebooking options and policies.
- Which states have declared states of emergency due to the storm?
- At least 14 states and Washington, D.C., have declared states of emergency in anticipation of the storm’s impact. The storm is expected to bring severe snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, threatening widespread power outages and hazardous travel conditions.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Storm Name | Winter Storm Fern |
| Impact Area | United States, from New Mexico to Maine, and parts of Canada |
| Flight Cancellations | Over 13,500 since Saturday, with approximately 9,600 on Sunday |
| Major Affected Airports | Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Dallas-Fort Worth, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Atlanta, New York’s JFK and LaGuardia |
| Airlines Issuing Waivers | American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, United, JetBlue |
| States of Emergency Declared | At least 14 states and Washington, D.C. |
| Passenger Rights | Full refunds for canceled flights, including non-refundable tickets and unused add-ons; airlines not required to cover meals or lodging during weather-related disruptions |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
