New York in the eye of the storm: Maximum preparations to face a harsh winter
New York City has declared a state of maximum alert, with the mayor ordering a near-total shutdown of the public transportation system in preparation for a major snowstorm described as potentially "historic." These proactive measures are aimed at ensuring the safety of millions of residents in one of the world's most densely populated cities, which is bracing for powerful winds and heavy snowfall that could paralyze daily life.
The state of emergency extends to tens of millions of Americans along the northeastern coast of the United States, from Maine in the north to Washington, D.C. in the south. The National Weather Service warned that the storm, rapidly forming over the Atlantic Ocean, could develop into a "bomb cyclone," a term used to describe storms that rapidly intensify, making them extremely dangerous.
The historical context of snowstorms on the East Coast
Severe snowstorms, known as "nor'easters," are not a new phenomenon on the U.S. East Coast. The region has a history of devastating storms that have left their mark on the collective memory, such as the "Storm of the Century" in 1993 and the major blizzard dubbed "Snowzilla" in 2016. These past experiences have taught authorities the importance of proactive preparation and decisive action, such as declaring states of emergency and shutting down critical infrastructure, to minimize human and material losses. The current storm evokes comparisons with those major events, raising concerns and prompting officials to issue strict warnings.
Expected impacts locally and regionally
The storm's impact is expected to be widespread. Locally in New York City, the shutdown of the subway and bus systems means a lifeline for more than 8 million people who rely on them for their daily commutes. Officials have urged residents to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel, noting that road conditions will be near impossible and extremely dangerous. Warnings also include the potential for widespread power outages due to heavy snow accumulation on power lines and strong winds that could uproot trees.
Regionally, several states, including New Jersey and Massachusetts, declared a state of emergency. Thousands of flights were canceled at major airports such as John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Boston Logan International Airport, causing significant disruptions to domestic and international travel. Authorities also warned of potential coastal flooding in low-lying areas from Delaware to Massachusetts, as the storm coincided with high tide.
Emergency measures and calls for residents
Faced with this threat, New York Governor Kathy Hawkell urged residents to prepare for the worst and stock up on essential supplies such as food, medicine, and drinking water. “Nature is throwing everything she has at us, and we need to be ready,” she said at a press briefing. In Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu declared a snow emergency, banning parking on main streets to clear the way for snowplows. Emergency crews are working around the clock to prepare shelters and coordinate response efforts to ensure a swift response to any emergencies during the critical hours ahead.
