Core Viewpoint - A significant winter storm is impacting the United States, leading to widespread flight cancellations and a dramatic increase in natural gas futures prices due to heightened demand for heating fuel as temperatures drop [1][4][6]. Flight Cancellations - Over 2900 flights have been canceled as of January 25, marking the worst day for flight cancellations since 2025 [2][3]. - The storm is expected to affect two-thirds of the country, with approximately 160 million people under extreme weather alerts [2][3]. - The storm's impact is extensive, spanning over 3000 kilometers, prompting residents in multiple states to stockpile supplies, resulting in shortages in stores [2][3]. Natural Gas Futures - Natural gas futures for February delivery surged by 70% this week, reaching $5.275 per million British thermal units (MMBtu), the largest weekly percentage increase recorded since 1990 [4][5]. - Spot prices for natural gas also saw significant increases, with Louisiana's Henry Hub spot price reaching an average of $28.55 per MMBtu, marking the highest since 2008 [5][6]. Market Dynamics - The surge in natural gas prices is driven by forecasts of below-normal temperatures across much of the U.S., which is expected to increase consumption and deplete inventories [6][7]. - Concerns about pipeline freeze-offs in southern gas-producing states could lead to production interruptions, with expected losses adjusted from 63.7 billion cubic feet to 86.4 billion cubic feet, representing 5.5% of total U.S. natural gas production [6][7]. - The market is also reacting to a shift in sentiment among hedge funds, leading to a rush to cover short positions, further driving up prices [6][7].
突发!超2900架次航班,紧急取消!这一品种狂飙70%!特大风暴,突袭美国
券商中国·2026-01-24 05:32