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

More than 2,000 flights got scrapped.

Big airports like JFK and LaGuardia were hit hard.

Delays lasted for hours.

The National Weather Service issued warnings.

Tornado watches included a handful of states.

Heavy rain and wind shut down runways.

Strong gusts stalled flights all over.

Airlines told flyers to watch for changes.

A mid-summer storm system worsened conditions.

By afternoon, airports cautiously reopened.

Passengers awaited new information on their travel plans.