Delays at New York Airports Due to Hurricane Debbie’s Remnants
On Friday, major airports in the New York area experienced delays as the remnants of Hurricane Debbie brought heavy rain and strong winds to the city. Flights at Kennedy, LaGuardia, and Newark airports were disrupted, with dozens of cancellations and delays reported.
Impact on Travel and Infrastructure
The National Weather Service predicted significant rainfall in the New York metropolitan area, potentially overwhelming the city’s storm sewer system and causing flooding in streets and subway tunnels. Tornado warnings were issued in several states, affecting millions of people.
Preparations and Responses to the Storm
To prepare for the storm, MTA crews mobilized portable pump units and inspected fixed pumps to ensure they could handle the stormwater. The city’s transportation infrastructure chief, Armando Crespo, oversaw inspections of flood-prone areas and emergency equipment.
Despite disruptions, efforts were made to clear debris, such as a fallen tree on N train tracks in Sunset Park. NYC Department of Transportation crews worked to maintain transportation infrastructure in the face of the storm.