In New York City, Mayor Zohran Mamdani declared a state of emergency as the city braces for what forecasters are calling the worst winter storm in at least a decade.
The announcement came on Sunday, with officials warning that a powerful blizzard could unload up to two feet of snow, bring strong winds and dangerous conditions to the metropolitan area and the wider U.S. Northeast.
The emergency declaration includes strict travel restrictions: all non-essential vehicles are banned from city streets, highways, bridges, and tunnels from Sunday evening through Monday afternoon to ensure that emergency services and essential workers can reach those in need and keep major thoroughfares clear.
The city’s municipal agencies, including sanitation crews, fire departments, and police, have mobilized resources around the clock in preparation for the storm’s arrival.
Schools across the city will remain closed Monday, with the mayor announcing a traditional “snow day” for students instead of remote learning.
City officials have also opened warming centers in all five boroughs to support vulnerable residents and urged New Yorkers to stay inside as conditions deteriorate.
This winter storm has prompted blizzard warnings across multiple states and has already disrupted travel, including the cancellation of thousands of flights across the region.
Sources:
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/22/us-north-east-storm-blizzard-warnings
