A historic winter storm is currently impacting the Northeastern United States, bringing blizzard conditions, heavy snowfall, and widespread travel disruptions. Over 56 million people are under winter storm warnings and blizzard alerts, stretching from New York to Boston, as a powerful system of snow and wind threatens to paralyze major cities. The storm began impacting the region on Sunday, February 22nd, and is expected to continue through Monday, February 23rd.
New York City is at the center of the storm, with a blizzard warning issued – the first in nearly a decade. The National Weather Service (NWS) is predicting between 12 and 24 inches of snow in the city and surrounding areas, with some locations potentially exceeding 24 inches. The storm, described as a “nor’easter,” is rapidly intensifying, creating dangerous conditions for residents.
Travel Grounded Across the Northeast
The powerful storm has already caused significant disruptions to travel. More than 3,000 flights have been canceled across the New York area, according to reports. Airports including John F. Kennedy International Airport are experiencing major delays and cancellations, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. Road travel is also severely impacted, with authorities urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has urged residents to stay home, warning that even short trips could become hazardous.
The severity of the snowfall has led to school closures and other disruptions to daily life. Public schools in New York City reopened for in-person classes despite the ongoing snowfall, prompting protests from some parents concerned about safety.
Historic Snowfall Totals
As of 1 p.m. On Monday, Central Park had already recorded 19.7 inches of snow, placing this storm as the ninth largest in the park’s history. Meteorologists believe the final snowfall totals could push this storm into the top five largest snowstorms ever recorded in Central Park, dating back to 1869. The National Weather Service has compiled data on the largest snowstorms in Central Park, excluding the ongoing 2026 event, revealing that the Blizzard of 1996, which dropped over 20 inches of snow, remains a benchmark for severe winter weather in the region.
Here’s a look at some of the largest snowstorms on record in Central Park:
| Rank | Snowfall (inches) | Date(s) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 27.5 | January 22-24, 2016 |
| 2 | 26.9 | February 11-12, 2006 |
| 3 | 26.4 | December 26-27, 1947 |
| 4 | 21.0 | March 12-14, 1888 |
| 5 | 20.9 | February 25-26, 2010 |
States of Emergency Declared
Both New York and New Jersey have declared states of emergency in response to the approaching storm. This allows for the mobilization of resources and the implementation of emergency measures to protect residents. The NWS is warning of dangerous wind gusts and continued heavy snowfall, particularly during nighttime hours. Residents are urged to take precautions, including having a supply of essential items on hand and avoiding unnecessary travel.
The NWS also issued a warning regarding power outages, advising caution when using candles or space heaters, and emphasizing the importance of keeping generators outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
If power is lost, stay safe while staying warm! 🔥 Candles & space heaters can cause fires, leverage with caution 🔌 Generators must stay outdoors and at least 20 ft from doors/windows ⚠️ Carbon monoxide is colorless and deadly. Never run generators indoors or in garages.
If power is lost, stay safe while staying warm!🔥 Candles & space heaters can cause fires, use with caution🔌 Generators must stay outdoors and at least 20 ft from doors/windows⚠️ Carbon monoxide is colorless and deadly. Never run generators indoors or in garages.https://t.co/R0sISvkTWU
— NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) February 23, 2026
As the storm continues to unfold, officials are monitoring conditions closely and providing updates to the public. The full extent of the storm’s impact will become clearer in the coming hours and days. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and heed the advice of local authorities.
Looking ahead, the focus will be on recovery efforts, including clearing roadways, restoring power, and assessing the damage caused by the storm. The long-term implications of this historic snowfall will be evaluated as the region begins to dig out.
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