New York City declared a state of emergency as it grappled with a powerful snowstorm, described as the strongest in years, which brought daily life to a near standstill. Although the travel ban imposed at the storm's peak was lifted, Mayor Zahran Mamdani confirmed that city agencies remained on high alert to address the aftermath of what he called "unprecedented winter weather.".
Background of the storm and its climatic context
A storm known as a "Nor'easter" slammed into the northeastern United States with powerful winds and heavy snow. Nor'easter storms are a characteristic weather phenomenon in the region, forming when cold air from Canada meets warm, moist air over the Atlantic Ocean, creating a powerful low-pressure system that moves along the East Coast. This particular storm brought more than 15 inches (about 38 cm) of snow to parts of the city, the most recorded snowfall since 2021, bringing back memories of the major snowstorms that have historically plagued New York City.
Widespread impacts at the local, regional, and international levels
Locally, New York City streets were frozen, traffic came to a standstill except for emergency vehicles, and schools and many businesses were closed. Authorities in New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island issued warnings affecting more than 40 million people, urging residents to stay indoors. The storm also caused power outages for hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses across the region.
Regionally, the impact wasn't limited to New York City alone, but extended to the entire Northeast Corridor, one of the most densely populated areas in the United States. Internationally, the paralysis of operations at major New York airports such as John F. Kennedy (JFK) and LaGuardia, as well as other airports in the region, resulted in the cancellation of more than 5,600 flights and the delay of thousands more, disrupting global travel given New York's status as a major international aviation hub.
Authorities' response and residents' reactions
Mayor Mamdani stressed that the top priority is ensuring the safety of residents and restoring essential services as quickly as possible. Emergency crews are working around the clock to clear snow from main streets and repair power lines. Residents' reactions have been mixed; while some expressed weariness with the recurring storms, others took the opportunity to enjoy the city's stunning snowy landscape. "It's fantastic," resident Chris Crowell told AFP. "Lots of snow, and the view is truly beautiful." Although the National Weather Service predicted a decrease in snowfall, it warned of continued strong winds that could further hinder recovery efforts.
