Blizzard conditions, 70 mph winds expected; schools closed, thousands of flights canceled as powerful storm hits Northeast
New York, NY – February 23, 2026 New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani declared a state of emergency on Sunday afternoon and imposed a citywide travel ban as a powerful nor’easter blizzard bears down on the Northeast, threatening up to two feet of snow and hurricane-force winds.
The travel ban prohibits all non-essential vehicles from city streets, highways, and bridges. It takes effect at 9 p.m. EST Sunday and remains in place until noon Monday, allowing emergency services, snow removal crews, and essential workers unimpeded access to roadways.
The National Weather Service forecasts blizzard conditions across the five boroughs, with snow accumulations expected to reach 12-18 inches in NYC and 18-24 inches in parts of Long Island and the Jersey Shore. Wind gusts could hit 70 mph, creating whiteout conditions and life-threatening travel hazards. The storm, described as a rapidly intensifying “bomb cyclone,” has prompted emergency declarations from New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill.
During a press conference at City Hall, Mayor Mamdani urged residents to stay indoors and avoid all non-essential activities: “This is a dangerous storm. We are prioritizing public safety. Stay home, stay warm, and let our first responders do their jobs.”
Major Disruptions Across the Tri-State
- NYC public schools will observe their first full snow day in seven years on Monday, shifting to remote learning if necessary (influenced by recent school vacations).
- Thousands of flights have been canceled at JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports as airlines brace for the worst of the weather.
- Mass transit agencies have warned of potential delays, service reductions, and safety concerns on subway, bus, and commuter rail lines.
The travel ban and emergency declaration reflect the severity of the storm’s projected impact on a region still recovering from recent winter weather events. Officials are urging residents to prepare emergency kits, check on vulnerable neighbors, and monitor official updates from NYC Emergency Management and the National Weather Service.
L’Union Suite will continue providing real-time updates on road conditions, school closures, flight statuses, and safety alerts for Haitian-American and immigrant communities across the city.
Stay safe, stay inside, and check on your loved ones.
