Severe Weather Expected to Disrupt Flights at NYC-Area Airports

Forecasters warn of heavy rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms that could impact travel on Monday evening.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:21pm

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Travelers flying in and out of the New York City area may face potential delays and cancellations due to severe weather conditions expected on Monday evening. Forecasters predict the most active period of rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms will be between 6 p.m. and 2 a.m. on Tuesday, which could impact the evening commute and flight operations at the region's major airports.

Why it matters

Flight disruptions at the busy New York City-area airports can have ripple effects across the country's air travel network, causing delays and cancellations for passengers traveling to and from the region. The severe weather also poses safety risks for travelers and airport operations.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, a Wind Advisory is in effect from Monday afternoon through early Tuesday, with sustained south to southeast winds of 15 to 22 mph and gusts potentially reaching 55 mph as a cold front moves through the area. The anticipated rainfall could also impact the Monday evening commute, and the city's Flash Flood Emergency Plan has been activated. As of 5 p.m. on Monday, Newark Airport was experiencing departure delays averaging 41 minutes, and the FAA has advised travelers of longer TSA wait times at all three major NYC-area airports.

  • The most active period of weather is expected to be between about 6 p.m. Monday and 2 a.m. Tuesday.
  • A Wind Advisory is in effect from Monday afternoon through early Tuesday.

The players

John F. Kennedy International Airport

One of the major airports serving the New York City metropolitan area.

LaGuardia Airport

Another major airport serving the New York City metropolitan area.

Newark Airport

The third major airport serving the New York City metropolitan area, located in Newark, New Jersey.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The agency responsible for the regulation and oversight of civil aviation in the United States.

National Weather Service

The primary source of weather data, forecasts, and warnings for the United States.

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What’s next

The FAA and local airport authorities will continue to monitor the weather conditions and provide updates on any flight disruptions or delays.

The takeaway

The severe weather expected in the New York City region on Monday evening highlights the vulnerability of air travel to disruptive weather events and the importance of preparedness and coordination among aviation authorities, airlines, and travelers to minimize the impact on passengers.