New York City is famous for being constantly on the move, but with what’s shaping up to be a rare storm, officials are urging residents across the city to stay home—preferably bundled up under blankets with a mug of hot cocoa in hand. And when New York City tells you to stay home, you know it means business.
🚙 What To Know: NYC’s Travel Ban
Mayor Zohran Mamdani has issued a citywide travel ban ahead of the incoming blizzard. The ban will take effect at 9 pm on Sunday, February 22nd and remain in place until 12 pm on Monday, February 23rd.
Under the order, all highways and bridges will be closed to vehicular traffic, and residents are strongly urged to avoid any non-essential travel. Officials emphasize that keeping roads clear is critical for emergency responders, utility crews, and snow removal teams who will be working around the clock.
❄️ What To Know: A Local State Of Emergency
This comes alongside the declaration of a local state of emergency across New York City, triggering a sweeping set of measures designed to protect public safety and keep critical services running. City streets will be closed to non-essential vehicular traffic from 9 pm. Sunday through 12 pm Monday, ensuring emergency responders and essential workers can move swiftly and safely through the five boroughs. Limited exceptions apply to vehicles providing emergency services, public transportation, and the delivery of medical supplies, food, fuel, and utility repairs.
And good news for little ones with big plans to go sledding tomorrow: the order also means a traditional snow day for students. All New York City Public School buildings will be closed Monday, February 23rd.
Mayor Mamdani stated:
This emergency declaration allows us to cut through red tape so emergency vehicles, sanitation crews, and essential workers can move quickly and do their jobs without delay. Out of an abundance of caution, schools will be closed tomorrow. We’ve also opened warming centers in all five boroughs to make sure no one is left out in the cold. I’m urging every New Yorker to please stay home. Check in on your neighbors, especially seniors and those who may need extra support.
🌨️ Storm Timeline & Impacts
The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning from Sunday morning through Monday morning, with the most dangerous conditions expected overnight.
- Snowfall totals: 18 to 24 inches possible — up to 2 feet in some areas
- Heaviest snowfall window: 10 p.m. Sunday through 10 a.m. Monday
- Peak snowfall rates: 2 to 3 inches per hour
- Wind gusts: Up to 55 mph
The combination of intense snowfall and powerful winds is expected to create near-whiteout conditions, severely reduced visibility, and potentially impassable roads. Drifting snow could make travel treacherous even after plows make initial passes.
New Yorkers are known for pushing through just about anything. But when the city that never sleeps tells you to hunker down, it’s wise to listen. And if there’s one thing this storm can’t bury, it’s the spirit of New Yorkers. This is a city that checks on its neighbors, shares extra groceries, and keeps each other cozy. So while the wind howls and the snow piles up, let’s look out for one another. That’s what keeps this city warm long after the storm passes. 🫂❤️