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

More than 2,000 flights got scrapped.

Busy airports like JFK and LaGuardia were took a beating.

Delays lasted for hours.

The National Weather Service alerted travelers.

Tornado watches included several states.

Heavy rain and wind closed runways.

Powerful gusts kept aircraft on the ground all over.

Airlines told flyers to monitor any adjustments.

A summer storm system made things worse.

By afternoon, airports cautiously reopened.

Passengers waited for updates on their journeys.