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NYC Braces for Crippling Blizzard

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/22/nyc-braces-for-crippling-blizzard.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 15:40 GMT by abc7NY
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

NEW YORK CITY (February 22nd, 2026) - New York City is on high alert as a potentially crippling blizzard is forecast to slam the five boroughs late Sunday night into Monday morning. Mayor Zohran Mamdani is currently weighing the difficult decision of whether to close public schools, a move that would impact over a million students and their families. The impending storm, predicted to bring heavy snowfall and dangerously strong winds, is forcing city officials to mobilize resources and residents to prepare for significant disruptions.

As of 8:39 PM EST on Sunday, February 22nd, 2026, the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for all five boroughs, remaining in effect until 6:00 AM Monday. The forecast indicates that snowfall will begin gradually late Sunday, quickly intensifying through the overnight hours and peaking during the Monday morning commute. Current projections estimate total snowfall accumulation between 6 to 10 inches, but localized higher amounts are possible, particularly in areas outside the immediate urban core. Coupled with sustained winds gusting up to 40-50 mph, the combination will create near-whiteout conditions and hazardous travel.

"We're looking at a very tough Monday morning commute," warned ABC7NY Meteorologist Tony Ferrera in a televised briefing. "Conditions will deteriorate rapidly after midnight, with visibility dropping significantly. Travel could become very difficult or even impossible in some areas, and we strongly advise against non-essential travel." Ferrera emphasized the risk of drifting snow, which can quickly reduce road visibility and render plowing efforts less effective.

Mayor Mamdani, facing his first major winter weather crisis since taking office last year, has pledged a careful and considered approach to the school closure decision. "We are monitoring the situation closely and will make a decision based on the best interests of our students and staff," Mamdani stated in an official press release earlier today. Sources close to the Mayor's office indicate that the decision hinges on a combination of snowfall rates, predicted wind chills, and the ability of the Department of Sanitation to adequately clear roadways and sidewalks before school start times. The logistical challenge of transporting students, particularly those reliant on buses, is a key factor in the deliberation.

The city's response is already underway. The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has deployed its fleet of over 2,000 snow plows and salt spreaders, pre-treating major roadways and prioritizing routes serving hospitals, emergency services, and public transportation hubs. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is also preparing for the storm's impact, with extra crews on standby to clear subway tracks, platforms, and bus routes. Track switches will be proactively heated to prevent freezing, and subway service may be adjusted or suspended in certain areas if conditions become too dangerous.

Beyond the official city response, residents are being urged to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families. The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is recommending that residents:

• Charge all electronic devices: Ensuring phones, tablets, and other essential communication tools are fully charged is critical, especially given the potential for power outages.
• Stock up on supplies: Having a supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, essential medications, and a first-aid kit is vital for weathering the storm.
• Avoid unnecessary travel: The safest course of action is to stay off the roads altogether during the peak of the storm.
• Dress warmly in layers: Protecting against the cold and wind chill is essential to prevent hypothermia.
• Prepare for power outages: Knowing the location of flashlights, batteries, and alternative heating sources can help mitigate the impact of a potential power disruption.

The potential for widespread power outages is a significant concern. Con Edison, the city's energy provider, has activated its storm preparation plan, positioning crews and equipment to respond quickly to any outages that may occur. They are also advising residents to report any downed power lines immediately. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds can bring down tree limbs and power lines, posing a safety hazard.

This blizzard follows a relatively mild winter in New York City, making preparedness even more crucial. While residents may be accustomed to challenging winter weather, the potential for significant accumulation and strong winds demands a serious response. Mayor Mamdani is expected to announce his decision regarding school closures within the hour, and residents are advised to stay tuned to local news channels and the city's official website for the latest updates.