A historic winter storm has begun to batter the northeastern United States, placing approximately 59 million people under weather warnings and causing widespread disruption. New York City is under a full travel ban as the region braces for what forecasters are calling one of the most powerful nor’easter storms in nearly a decade.
State of Emergency Declared Across Multiple States
States of emergency have been declared in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, with travel restrictions and bans implemented across the affected areas. Thousands of flights have been cancelled, leaving travellers stranded and disrupting transportation networks. According to FlightAware, around 5,500 US flights were cancelled on Sunday alone, with hundreds more delayed.
Intense Snowfall and Treacherous Conditions
The storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall, fierce winds, and coastal flooding. As of midnight local time on Monday, several inches of snow had already accumulated across the Northeast, with Manorville, New York, and Howell, New Jersey, reporting 10 inches (25cm) each, according to the US National Weather Service (NWS). The NWS warns that snowfall rates could reach 2-3 inches (5-7cm) per hour, with total accumulations potentially reaching 1-2 feet (30-60cm). These conditions will create “nearly impossible” and “extremely treacherous” travel conditions.
NYC Under Travel Ban & Blizzard Warning
New York City, the most populous city in the US, is under a blizzard warning for the first time in nine years. A full travel ban is in effect from 9:00 PM Sunday to 12:00 PM Monday, shutting down all streets, highways, and bridges except for emergency vehicles. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has announced school closures and urged residents to stay home. The city is bracing for 18-24 inches (45-60cm) of snow and temperatures dropping to around 20°F (-6°C), with some areas potentially receiving up to 28 inches (70cm).
Widespread Power Outages and Emergency Response
Power outages are already impacting over 150,000 people in the northeastern states, including 60,000 in New Jersey. Virginia, Delaware, and Maryland are also experiencing significant power disruptions. Governors across the region have declared states of emergency and activated the National Guard to assist with rescue and recovery efforts. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has deployed 100 National Guard members on standby, warning that this storm could be unlike anything seen in years. She stated, “People will be in the dark. Long Island and New York City and lower Hudson are literally in the direct eye of the storm.”
Impact Beyond New York
The storm’s impact extends beyond New York City. Rhode Island has issued a statewide travel ban and activated the National Guard. Connecticut has halted all commercial vehicles on highways. Massachusetts, Delaware, and Pennsylvania have also declared states of emergency and closed schools. Even Washington D.C. is preparing for potential disruptions, with school districts announcing closures and federal government offices delaying the start of the workday.
Canada Also in the Path
The storm’s reach extends into Canada, with Nova Scotia’s east coast expected to be the hardest hit. Amber weather warnings are in place, suggesting potential widespread outages, roof damage, and falling debris.
Stay informed with the latest National Weather Service forecasts and heed the warnings of local authorities. This powerful nor’easter is a serious threat, and taking precautions is crucial for safety.
