A powerful winter storm swept through New York City over the weekend, bringing heavy snowfall and causing widespread disruptions. According to weather officials, the storm marked the most significant snowfall in years, with some areas reporting over a foot of snow.
Snowfall totals varied throughout the city, with the highest amounts recorded in upper Manhattan and parts of the Bronx. The National Weather Service reported nearly 15 inches of snow in Washington Heights, while Central Park measured over 11 inches, breaking a daily snowfall record. Some areas in the Hudson Valley saw even higher totals, with over 18 inches recorded.
In Queens, Whitestone and Howard Beach reported 11. 1 inches and 11 inches of snow, respectively. John F. Kennedy International Airport recorded 10. 3 inches, while LaGuardia Airport measured 9. 7 inches. The storm caused significant disruptions to air travel, with LaGuardia Airport shutting down for several hours and flights being delayed and canceled.
Mass transit systems also struggled to recover from the storm. New Jersey Transit suspended all service during the height of the storm and resumed limited operations days later. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority had to adjust subway, bus, and commuter rail service due to icy conditions and extreme cold.
Roadways across the region were hazardous, with heavy, wet snow contributing to numerous accidents and delays. City officials advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to use caution while shoveling, warning about the risk of injuries and heart strain from the weight of the snow.
As the storm approached, residents flocked to grocery stores, stocking up on essentials in anticipation of being snowed in. This led to empty shelves and limited supplies, creating chaos in many neighborhood markets. Schools were closed, and food delivery services were temporarily suspended.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani ordered New York City public schools to shift to remote learning during the storm, which officials said was mostly successful. While some students were disappointed to miss a traditional snow day, the state’s requirement for 180 instructional days left little flexibility. As the storm tapered off, frigid temperatures lingered, causing concerns about icy roads and sidewalks.
The storm was one for the history books, ranking among the most impactful winter weather events in recent years, and forecasters are already monitoring the potential for another winter system in the days ahead. Despite the challenges, residents and officials are working together to weather the storm and keep the city running.