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NYC Blizzard: Record Snowfall Cripples City

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 18:22 GMT by The New York Times
      Locales: New York, New Jersey, UNITED STATES

New York City, NY - February 22nd, 2026 - A historic winter storm continues to batter New York City and the surrounding tri-state area, bringing record-breaking snowfall, crippling travel conditions, widespread power outages, and forcing a complete shutdown of normal life. What began as a late Saturday snow event has rapidly escalated into a full-blown blizzard, threatening to become one of the most significant weather events in the city's history.

As of 11:21 PM EST on Sunday, February 22nd, 2026, the National Weather Service's blizzard warning remains in effect. Snowfall rates have consistently exceeded 2-3 inches per hour in many parts of the city, drastically reducing visibility and creating treacherous conditions. Preliminary snowfall totals have surpassed 18 inches across most boroughs, with some areas already reporting accumulations exceeding 20 inches. Forecasters are predicting an additional 6-10 inches before the storm finally begins to move out early Monday morning, potentially bringing the total snowfall to a staggering 24 inches or more - a figure that would place this storm among the top five heaviest snowfalls ever recorded in New York City.

Transportation at a Standstill

The impact on transportation has been catastrophic. LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy International Airports are experiencing near-total shutdowns, with hundreds of flights cancelled and thousands of passengers stranded. Major roadways, including the Long Island Expressway, the Bruckner Expressway, and the Cross Bronx Expressway, are virtually impassable. Snowplows are struggling to keep up with the relentless snowfall, and the sheer volume of snow is rendering many streets completely blocked.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has been forced to suspend service on multiple subway lines, and those that remain operational are experiencing significant delays. Above-ground sections of the subway are particularly vulnerable to snow accumulation, leading to track obstructions and electrical issues. The MTA has repeatedly urged commuters to avoid all non-essential travel. Bus service has also been severely curtailed, with many routes suspended indefinitely.

State of Emergency and Travel Ban

Mayor Thompson declared a state of emergency late Sunday evening, issuing a city-wide travel ban for all non-essential vehicles. The ban is strictly enforced by the NYPD, with violators facing hefty fines. Residents are strongly advised to stay indoors and off the roads until the storm subsides and conditions improve. Emergency services are stretched thin, responding to numerous reports of accidents and stranded motorists. The city's Office of Emergency Management has opened several warming centers for those without heat or shelter.

Widespread Power Outages

The heavy snowfall, combined with strong winds, has brought down power lines and caused transformer failures across the city, leaving thousands of residents without electricity. Con Edison is working tirelessly to restore power, but the difficult conditions are hindering their efforts. Crews are facing challenges accessing affected areas due to blocked roads and downed trees. The lack of power is not only impacting residential areas but also critical infrastructure, including hospitals and emergency facilities, which are relying on backup generators.

Schools and Businesses Closed

All public schools in New York City and a vast majority of suburban school districts have been closed for Monday, February 23rd. Unlike recent weather events where remote learning was implemented, the widespread power outages have rendered that option unavailable. Many private schools and businesses have also announced closures, effectively bringing the city to a standstill. The economic impact of the storm is expected to be significant.

Looking Ahead

The storm is expected to gradually taper off overnight, but lingering snow showers are possible throughout Monday morning. The immediate focus will be on clearing roads, restoring power, and ensuring the safety of residents. City officials are warning that the aftermath of the storm could be just as challenging as the storm itself, with significant cleanup efforts required. Residents are urged to exercise caution when venturing outdoors, as sidewalks and streets will remain icy and treacherous for several days. This historic blizzard serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness during extreme weather events.