Snow, Wind and Cancellations Paralyze D.C. as Nor’easter Roars Up East Coast

February 23, 2026

Winter Storm Hernando struck the mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions over the weekend, bringing heavy snowfall and strong winds that created blizzard-like conditions from Washington D.C. through New England. The powerful nor'easter caused widespread transportation chaos, with airlines canceling thousands of flights at major airports and Amtrak reducing service along the Northeast Corridor between Washington and Boston. More than 150,000 customers lost electrical power around midnight as snow and wind brought down tree limbs and power lines across the region.

Who is affected

Tens of thousands of residents across the mid-Atlantic and Northeast region
More than 150,000 customers without electricity in the mid-Atlantic area
Air travelers at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
Airline passengers nationwide affected by thousands of canceled flights
Amtrak customers on the Northeast Corridor between Washington and Boston
Residents of Montgomery County, Maryland
Commuters in the D.C. area

What action is being taken

Road crews are treating roads and highways
Airlines are canceling and delaying flights at regional airports
Amtrak is implementing service adjustments and canceling several Northeast Regional trains
Utilities are working on power restoration efforts
Montgomery County, Maryland is working to help residents amid power outages
Emergency officials are monitoring track and weather conditions

Why it matters

This storm represents a significant weather emergency affecting one of the most densely populated corridors in the United States, disrupting critical transportation infrastructure along Interstate 95 from Washington D.C. to Boston. The widespread power outages, travel disruptions, and hazardous conditions impact millions of residents and threaten public safety, particularly for vulnerable populations without heat or electricity during winter conditions. The extended timeline for power restoration and the ripple effects through national airline schedules demonstrate how regional weather events can have far-reaching consequences across the country.

What's next

Snow may impact the morning commute (Monday)
Utilities warn that restoration efforts could stretch into the week if winds continue
Amtrak will notify customers directly about changes as conditions are monitored

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer