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

More than 2,000 flights were canceled.

Big airports like JFK and LaGuardia were took a beating.

Delays lasted for hours.

The National Weather Service alerted travelers.

Tornado watches spanned a handful of states.

Heavy rain and wind closed runways.

Strong gusts stalled flights all over.

Airlines advised travelers to watch for changes.

A summer storm system made things worse.

By afternoon, airports cautiously reopened.

Passengers awaited new information on their trip itineraries.