Historic Winter Storm Triggers Blizzard Warnings and Travel Restrictions
A historic winter storm has placed 54 million people under blizzard warnings and led to travel restrictions in several regions, including a travel ban in New York City.
States of emergency have been declared in Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, accompanied by travel restrictions. Similar orders are in effect in New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts as the storm approaches the coast.
Forecasters predict that other parts of the US Northeast and the Canadian Maritimes will also experience severe weather conditions on Sunday and Monday.
Powerful Nor'easter Expected to Bring Snow, Winds, and Flooding
The storm is anticipated to be the most powerful nor'easter in nearly a decade for many areas in the Northeast, delivering heavy snow, strong winds, and coastal flooding.
Approximately 35 million people are under blizzard warnings, while an additional 19 million are covered by winter storm warnings, spanning from the Central Appalachians to coastal Maine.
The National Weather Service indicated that the storm's low-pressure center is expected to develop late Sunday afternoon through the evening.
"While we do get plenty of these nor'easters that produce heavy snow and strong impacts, it's been several years since we saw one of this magnitude across this large of a region in this very populated part of the country," Cody Snell, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Center, told CBS News.
Flight Cancellations and Delays Impact Thousands
More than 3,500 US flights have been canceled for Sunday, with hundreds more delayed, according to the flight-tracking website FlightAware.
New York City Faces Severe Conditions and Travel Ban
This is the first blizzard warning for New York City, the most populous US city, in nine years. The city is expected to be particularly affected, with snowfall projected between 18 and 24 inches and temperatures dropping into the 20s Fahrenheit (below zero Celsius).
A full travel ban in New York City is in effect from 9:00 PM EST (02:00 GMT) on Sunday until 12:00 PM EST (17:00 GMT) on Monday. Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that schools would be canceled and all streets, highways, and bridges would be closed to traffic except for emergency vehicles.
During a news conference, Mayor Mamdani stated that the most intense snowfall is expected overnight, with up to 28 inches in some areas. He declared a state of emergency in the city. This marks the second major snowstorm during the first-term mayor's administration, following a three-week cold snap in January that resulted in 19 fatalities.
High Winds and Power Outages Anticipated Across New York State
Across New York State, the highest wind gusts are expected along the coast, reaching 65 to 70 mph. Officials have warned of potential downed tree limbs and power outages.
Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency statewide ahead of the nor'easter and activated approximately 100 National Guard members.
"This will be something the likes of which we've not seen in years," Governor Hochul said. "People will be in the dark. Long Island and New York City and lower Hudson are literally in the direct eye of the storm."
New Jersey and Connecticut Prepare for Severe Weather
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill declared a state of emergency and suspended service on the state's transit network at 6:00 PM EST for all buses, light rail, and Access Link services.
She described the storm as potentially "the worst storm we have seen since 1996" and urged residents to remain indoors and avoid travel.
In Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont issued an emergency order prohibiting all commercial vehicles from traveling on state highways. This order took effect at 5:00 PM ET (22:00 GMT) and will remain until further notice.
Additional States Declare Emergencies and Take Precautionary Measures
Massachusetts, Delaware, and Rhode Island have also declared states of emergency ahead of the storm. Boston, Massachusetts, has closed schools in response to the forecasted weather.
In Pennsylvania, Governor Josh Shapiro signed a disaster declaration to ensure state agencies have the necessary resources to prepare and protect residents. He advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel and to follow guidance from local officials and agencies.
Canadian Maritimes Brace for Impact
In Canada, Nova Scotia's east coast is expected to be the hardest hit, with many areas currently under an orange weather warning from Monday morning until early Tuesday.
