Storms lashed the U.S. East Coast on Wednesday.

More than 2,000 flights were dropped.

Big airports like JFK and LaGuardia were took a beating.

Delays lasted for hours.

The National Weather Service issued warnings.

Tornado watches spanned several states.

Torrential rain and wind blocked runways.

Strong gusts grounded planes all over.

Airlines advised travelers to watch for changes.

A summer storm system made things worse.

By afternoon, airports cautiously reopened.

Passengers waited for updates on their journeys.