FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
The Northeast US is in a state of emergency, with storms and snow in some areas...
One of the strongest storms in recent years has paralyzed New York and much of the northeastern United States, causing massive transportation disruptions, school closures and the declaration of a state of emergency in several states. Heavy snowfall continued until midday, as weather services warned of worsening conditions, with strong winds and very limited visibility.
Central Park received more than 15 inches of snow, while parts of Long Island saw more than 22 inches of snow. Islip, in Suffolk County, received 22 inches, with forecasters predicting several more inches before the storm weakens. In Freehold, New Jersey, the National Weather Service (NWS) reported 24 inches of snow.
According to official figures, the total amount of precipitation has already surpassed the level of last month's major storm, when more than 28 centimeters were recorded in Central Park. If the final figures exceed 53 centimeters, this storm will rank among the five heaviest ever recorded in the city. The historical record remains that of 27.5 inches of snow in 2016.
Heavy bands of snow over New York City. This is the kind of storm you'll be telling your children and grandchildren about. We're going to see some very impressive snowfall totals when this is over. pic.twitter.com/XIXJGoUnxX
— Nicholas Isabella (@NycStormChaser) February 23, 2026
Authorities described the situation as extremely dangerous for travel. The NWS warned that travel was “nearly impossible” due to the combination of heavy rain and winds reaching up to 90 kilometers per hour. Visibility in many areas was severely reduced, while ice and snow accumulation made it difficult for emergency vehicles to travel.
New York State Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for the city's five boroughs, Long Island and several surrounding counties. All of New Jersey was also placed under a state of emergency. A curfew went into effect from 9 p.m. Sunday until noon Monday, leaving the city's streets virtually empty.
Public transportation was severely affected. All NJ Transit services were suspended, while the Long Island Rail Road and New York City subway operated with numerous cancellations and delays. Nationally, more than 5,500 flights were canceled and about 9,000 more were delayed, according to FlightAware data, with New York and Boston airports experiencing the greatest impact.
To those who are saying this isn't a blizzard...well, this is a blizzard
— New York City Kopp (@NYCkopp) February 23, 2026
????️❄️❄️❄️ New York City #blizzard2026 pic.twitter.com/dJMstJbgp3
Schools in the city remained closed. Mayor Zohran Mamdani described the situation as “the first traditional snow day” since 2019, underscoring the intensity of the storm. Snow removal teams were mobilized since Sunday evening to open main roads and ensure access to hospitals and essential services.
Meteorologists predict that precipitation will gradually decrease, while temperatures are expected to increase during the week. This could lead to rapid snowmelt and the risk of local flooding, especially in urban areas where the sewage system may be overloaded. Authorities have called on citizens to avoid unnecessary movements and follow official announcements until the weather conditions stabilize. /Pamphlet
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