A “epic-scale” powerful snowstorm is currently battering the East Coast of the United States, affecting over 70 million people according to meteorological departments. Weather forecasts reveal that in certain areas of New York City, snowfall could reach up to 28 inches (approximately 71 centimeters), accompanied by strong winds of up to 60 miles per hour and the risk of coastal flooding. Governor Hok Chu declared a state of emergency, with city and transportation authorities activating comprehensive emergency measures.
New York City Mayor Mamdani also announced a state of emergency, with a traffic ban in effect from 9 p.m. on the 22nd until noon on Monday (23rd).
Mamdani stated, “The state of emergency will close streets, highways, and bridges in New York City, prohibiting all traffic, including cars, trucks, and electric scooters; all traffic activities will be suspended except for specific essential and emergency operations.”
According to weather forecasts, this snowstorm is categorized as a severe “nor’easter,” bringing continuous snowfall and strong winds from Sunday night to Monday morning. Snowfall is predicted to be around 22 inches citywide, with some areas seeing up to 28 inches; gusts could reach up to 60 miles per hour, with the possibility of coastal storm surges.
Governor Hok Chu declared a state of emergency in New York City, Westchester County, and Orange County, urging residents to stay indoors unless necessary.
Mayor Mamdani learned from the controversy sparked by remote learning during the heavy snowstorm last month, providing public school students with a “traditional snow day” this time.
Nearly a million New York City public school students are off on Monday (23rd), without having to engage in remote learning. The mayor urged students and parents to stay indoors during the strongest period of the storm.
Air travel has been severely affected even before the full onset of the snowstorm. Over 3,000 flights were canceled at New York’s three major airports. Major airlines affected include Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and JetBlue.
With the snowfall ongoing, the number of flight cancellations is expected to increase further.
Facing the impending heavy snow, the MTA has activated its snowstorm emergency plan.
Subway services: Operations are mainly maintained, but delays are possible; some outdoor and elevated sections (especially in Brooklyn and Queens’ outer areas) may run at reduced speeds due to snow and strong winds. Staff have been deployed in advance to apply anti-freeze and snow removal measures at track switches; passengers are advised to allow extra commuting time.
Bus services: Some bus routes may be altered or suspended; services on ramps and bridge sections in heavily snow-affected areas may be interrupted; if the city announces “Snow Emergency Routes,” specific streets will be cleared first, and non-essential vehicles may be towed.
Commuter rail services: The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and Metro-North Railroad may adjust schedules; delays or temporary suspensions may occur at some outdoor platforms.
The MTA urges passengers to check the official website for real-time updates before traveling and to avoid using public transportation during the strongest period of the storm.
The mayor stated that the city has initiated its largest snow removal operation, with over 2,000 snow plows deployed. The workforce for snow removal has increased from 500 people during the last storm to 1,400 people.
Temporary flood barriers have been set up in coastal areas, and coastal flood warnings have been issued for the Rockaways, Battery Park, and Staten Island.
As the storm approaches, several Home Depot stores have reported selling out of snowmelt salt and snow shoveling tools. Some stores have even sold out of snow blowers.
Both city and state governments urge the public to stock up on essential supplies, avoid driving, and closely follow official announcements.