Us airlines cancel flights ahead of blizzard

Snow in New York, 2011 Photo: Roeyahram

New York City mayor Bill de Blasio said the snowstorm bearing down on the country this week could be among the worst the city has ever seen.

The National Weather Service warns that the storm system off the East Coast will "continue to strengthen" today and forecasts snow of up to three feet or more  in many parts of the Northeast through Tuesday evening, including New York City and Boston.

Strong, gusty winds will combine with the snow to create blizzard conditions along and near the Coast.

Now, airlines have reacted by cancelling thousands of flights.

2,464 flights have been cancelled within, into, or out of the USA today, according to tracking website Flight Aware.

Most major airlines have also decided to waive any fees for customers having to Change flights in the coming days, if their journey involves an affected airport. American Airlines, for example, will allow travellers to reschedule their ticket to any flight between today and Friday 30th January.

It is advisable to check with your airline immediately for any updates that will impact your journey.