More Than 2k Flights Canceled Across US Disrupting Holiday Travel

A "bomb cyclone" of winter weather has caused the cancellation of more than 2,000 flights, disrupting holiday travel and causing airport headaches across the country.

Severe winter weather stretching from Texas and Florida to Maine caused 1,537 flight cancelations in the U.S. on Thursday, according to Flight Aware. The flight-tracking website has reported over 750 cancelations already for Friday and more are expected.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport has the most cancellations as lake effect snow and freezing temperatures threaten to shut down the metropolitan area in the coming days. On Thursday, Chicago O'Hare recorded 482 flight cancelations. Two of the nation's largest airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, have major hubs in Chicago. American Airlines cancelled 66 flights in Chicago.

Meteorologists at AccuWeather are calling the storm system a "bomb cyclone" as it moves east. Meteorologists forecast high winds, low temperatures and high snow accumulation. The Weather Channel wind chill alerts span from Washington state to northern Florida,

Cancelations at major airports could have a butterfly effect for fliers outside of the winter weather zone, as Thursday is expected to be the busiest travel day leading up to the holidays.

Airlines have begun issuing travel waivers to those affected by cancelations and delays due to weather CNN reports, with many airlines offering no-cost reassignment.

Experts are reporting those planning to travel over the next two weeks should check their flight status often according to CNN. Travelers should arrive at the airport several hours early to beat the crowds and speak with agents in case of unexpected delays.