On July 28, 2026, nearly 1,000 flights were cancelled at New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport due to severe storms that swept through the region.
The National Weather Service issued flood watches covering New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, parts of Connecticut, northern New Jersey, and eastern Pennsylvania as slow-moving thunderstorms caused heavy rainfall. Many areas were expected to receive between 2 to 5 inches of rain, with isolated downpours of 2 to 3 inches per hour. The Catskills region was forecasted to experience 6 to 8 inches within
hours. The US Weather Prediction Center assigned a moderate risk of excessive rainfall to New York City, Long Island, and the Mid-Hudson region.
Flight Cancellations Disrupt New York Metropolitan Area Airports
The storm prompted significant air travel disruption across the New York metropolitan area. Close to 1,000 flight departures were cancelled at JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports on July 28. Airlines prepared for the severe weather, which also caused ground delays. Officials warned further cancellations and delays could occur as the storm persisted.
Officials Urge Caution and Preparation
New York Governor Kathy Hochul described the event as a “prolonged rain event beginning Tuesday that will bring heavy rains and cause flash flooding.” She
emphasized safety with the message: “When in doubt, turn around, don’t drown.” New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani advised residents to prepare for dangerous conditions, noting that even brief intense rainfall could cause flash flooding in vulnerable locations.
The New York City Emergency Management Department recommended travelers allow extra time for trips and avoid driving on flooded roads. Both officials highlighted the heightened risk given the region’s vulnerability after flooding from remnants of Hurricane Ida in 2021.
Travel Advisories and Continuing Flood Risks
Travelers scheduled to fly to or from JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark on July 28 faced widespread cancellations and were advised to allow additional
travel time. Flood warnings extended through Wednesday morning, July 29, with officials cautioning against flooded roads and urging vigilance as the storm moved through the area.
