Powerful winter storm slams US north-east as NYC issues travel ban

February 23, 2026

A powerful nor'easter storm system, the strongest to hit the northeastern United States in nearly a decade, has impacted approximately 59 million people across multiple states and Canadian maritime provinces. The blizzard has already caused nearly 90,000 power outages, primarily in New Jersey, and forced the cancellation of over 5,500 flights, with airports in New York experiencing the most severe disruptions. Forecasters predict snowfall accumulations of one to two feet in many areas, with up to 28 inches possible in New York City, combined with dangerous coastal winds reaching 70 mph and life-threatening wind chills.

Who is affected

59 million people under weather warnings across the northeastern US and Canadian maritime provinces
Nearly 90,000 property owners without power in New Jersey, plus tens of thousands more in Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia
Air travelers affected by 5,500+ cancelled flights on Sunday and thousands more on Monday
New York City residents facing a complete travel ban and school closures
Brooklyn resident Brandon Smith and other workers still required to report to jobs despite travel restrictions
Broadway show attendees and performers
Horse racing fans and participants at Aqueduct Racetrack
Residents of Massachusetts, Delaware, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Nova Scotia's east coast
Federal government workers in Washington DC
School districts and students across multiple states

What action is being taken

States of emergency are declared across the region
A full travel ban is in effect in New York City from Sunday evening until noon Monday
100 National Guard members are on ready alert in New York
National Guard is activated as needed in Rhode Island
Schools are closed in New York City, Boston, and districts near Washington DC
All Broadway shows were cancelled Sunday evening
New Jersey has halted services on the state's transport network
Connecticut has stopped all commercial vehicle travel on highways
Federal government offices in Washington DC have delayed the work day start and are allowing remote work
State government offices in Rhode Island are closed on Monday

Why it matters

This is the most powerful nor'easter to strike the densely populated northeastern United States in nearly a decade, affecting millions of people in a region that, while accustomed to winter storms, hasn't experienced one of this magnitude in several years. The combination of heavy snowfall rates (2-3 inches per hour), dangerous coastal winds up to 70 mph, and extreme cold creates life-threatening conditions and "nearly impossible" travel circumstances. The storm's timing and severity have forced unprecedented responses, including New York City's first blizzard warning in nine years and complete travel ban, which significantly disrupts the economic and daily activities of one of the world's most important metropolitan areas. The widespread power outages, especially during dangerous cold temperatures, pose serious risks to vulnerable populations, while the travel restrictions create hardships for workers who still must report to their jobs despite the dangerous conditions.

What's next

New York City's travel ban is scheduled to lift at noon local time on Monday
The storm is expected to continue affecting the region from Sunday evening through Monday
In Canada, Nova Scotia's amber weather warning extends until early Tuesday
Connecticut's commercial vehicle ban on highways will remain in effect "until further notice"

Read full article from source: BBC