UPDATE: A severe winter storm is currently battering the East Coast, bringing blizzard warnings from Maryland to Massachusetts. As snow and rain started to fall Sunday, the National Weather Service (NWS) predicts up to 2 feet (approximately 60 centimeters) of snow, strong winds, and potential flooding in affected areas.
Blizzard alerts have been issued for major cities including New York City, Boston, and parts of New Jersey. The storm is expected to escalate overnight, with the heaviest snow falling at rates of 2 inches (5 centimeters) per hour. NWS meteorologist Cody Snell warned that this storm represents a “major winter storm” with significant impacts for the Northeast.
Officials across the region have declared emergencies, including in New York and New Jersey, as preparations are underway to ensure public safety. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a travel ban starting at 9 p.m. Sunday, restricting non-essential traffic until noon on Monday. “These are blizzard conditions. New York City has not faced a storm of this scale in the last decade,” he stated.
Officials are also canceling in-person and virtual classes for city schools on Monday, marking the “first old-school snow day since 2019.” Mamdani urged residents to stay indoors and off the roads for their safety.
The NWS has issued warnings for wind gusts reaching up to 55 mph (80 kph), which could create whiteout conditions and lead to power outages as heavy snow accumulates on tree limbs and power lines. The Boston office of the NWS described the storm as “Potentially Historic/Destructive” and expressed concerns about power outages due to heavy snowfall and winds.
As the storm looms, travel disruptions are significant, with over 3,500 flights canceled across the U.S. as of Sunday afternoon, according to FlightAware.
Preparations for snow removal are ramping up, with companies like Berrington Snow Management gearing up for extensive operations across Long Island. John Berlingieri, the company’s owner, canceled personal plans to ensure his team is ready for the demanding task ahead. “I’m anticipating at least one week of work around the clock,” he mentioned, indicating they would work continuously for up to 36 hours.
In Atlantic City, local officials are advising residents and visitors to stay off the streets, particularly in low-lying areas vulnerable to flooding. Fire Chief Scott Evans warned, “You won’t be able to see it until it’s too late,” highlighting the danger of hidden water beneath snow.
A state of emergency was declared throughout New Jersey by Governor Mikie Sherrill, who cautioned residents about the storm’s potentially historic nature. Many churches also canceled Sunday services in light of the impending storm, while some, like St. Veronica Parish, adjusted their schedules to accommodate their congregations.
As communities brace for the storm’s impact, outreach workers are actively assisting homeless individuals, encouraging them to seek shelter in safe spaces.
With dire conditions expected, officials urge everyone to stay safe, avoid unnecessary travel, and prepare for possible power outages and hazardous road conditions.
Stay tuned for live updates as this storm continues to unfold.
