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Northeast US Braces for Major Winter Storm

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. /northeast-us-braces-for-major-winter-storm.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 20:49 GMT by WPIX New York City, NY
      Locales: New Jersey, New York, UNITED STATES

February 24th, 2026 - A powerful winter storm is currently impacting the Northeastern United States, with New York and New Jersey bearing the brunt of heavy snowfall, treacherous icy conditions, and dangerously frigid temperatures. The storm has prompted widespread school closures and delays across both states, disrupting the routines of hundreds of thousands of students and families. Beyond the educational sector, the storm is causing significant travel disruptions and raising concerns about potential power outages.

As of this morning, numerous school districts in New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and Northern and Central New Jersey have announced closures or delayed openings for Tuesday, February 24th. The decision to close schools wasn't taken lightly, officials stressed, prioritizing the safety of students, teachers, and transportation staff given the hazardous road conditions and the potential for black ice. Many districts opted for full closures, while others implemented delayed starts to allow time for road crews to clear primary routes. Parents are strongly advised to check directly with their local school districts' websites or social media channels for the most up-to-date information, as conditions can change rapidly.

The National Weather Service (NWS) reports snowfall totals ranging from 6 to 18 inches across the affected regions, with localized areas receiving even higher accumulations. The combination of heavy, wet snow and rapidly falling temperatures has created a dangerous glaze of ice on roads, sidewalks, and other surfaces. Wind gusts are also contributing to the hazardous conditions, causing blowing and drifting snow, significantly reducing visibility. The NWS has issued Winter Storm Warnings for several counties, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel.

Beyond school disruptions, the storm is wreaking havoc on transportation systems. Major highways, including portions of I-95, the New Jersey Turnpike, and the Garden State Parkway, are experiencing significant delays and closures. Air travel is also severely impacted, with hundreds of flights cancelled or delayed at major airports like John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and MacArthur Airport (ISP). Rail service, including Amtrak and NJ Transit, is also experiencing delays and cancellations. Commuters are urged to check with their respective transportation providers before heading to stations or airports.

Power outages are also a growing concern. Utility companies are reporting scattered outages due to downed power lines and tree limbs weighed down by heavy snow and ice. Crews are working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible, but officials warn that outages could be prolonged, particularly in areas that experience sustained high winds. Residents are reminded to have emergency kits prepared, including flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and water.

This storm comes amidst a winter season that has already seen above-average snowfall in many parts of the Northeast. Some meteorologists are pointing to a shift in weather patterns, potentially linked to long-term climate change, leading to more frequent and intense winter storms. While the link between individual weather events and climate change is complex, the increasing frequency of extreme weather events is consistent with climate models. Experts emphasize the importance of investing in infrastructure improvements to better withstand future storms and enhancing emergency preparedness measures.

The economic impact of the storm is expected to be significant. School closures disrupt childcare arrangements and can lead to lost productivity for parents. Transportation delays and cancellations affect businesses and travelers. Power outages can damage property and disrupt commerce. Local governments are bracing for increased costs associated with snow removal, emergency response, and infrastructure repair.

Residents are urged to heed warnings from local authorities, stay informed about the latest weather updates, and exercise extreme caution if they must venture outdoors. The storm is expected to gradually taper off later today, but lingering icy conditions will remain a hazard for several days. You can find the latest weather information at [ Yahoo Weather ].