What began as a modest forecast of 1 to 3 inches of snow has rapidly intensified into a powerful nor’easter, prompting sweeping emergency measures across New York City and the broader tri-state area.

City officials have now imposed a rare travel ban as a blizzard warning stretches across all five boroughs, Long Island and large parts of New Jersey. Forecasters say this storm could become the region’s most severe winter event in nearly a decade.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani Orders Travel Ban, School Closures

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that most travel across the city would be banned from 9 p.m. Sunday through noon Monday, calling the move necessary to protect public safety as conditions deteriorate.

Public schools will be closed Monday — with no remote learning — marking a return to the traditional snow day format. The mayor shared the announcement in a social media video, telling a student there would be “no online school, no remote learning, full classic snow day,” while urging families to stay indoors during the height of the storm.

Nonessential city services, including libraries, will also shut down.

Transportation disruptions are already underway. The Staten Island Ferry suspended service beginning at 5 p.m. Sunday and is expected to resume late Monday morning, weather permitting.

Blizzard Warning Extended: What to Expect

A blizzard warning remains in effect for New York City, Long Island and much of New Jersey. Meteorologists warn that snowfall totals could reach 12 to 18 inches across the city, central New Jersey and Nassau County. Some eastern parts of Long Island may see as much as two feet.

Wind gusts are expected to reach 55 mph, creating whiteout conditions and making travel dangerous — potentially life-threatening — at times. Snowfall rates could hit 4 inches per hour during peak intensity.

States of emergency have been declared in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut as officials brace for worsening conditions.

Transit Suspensions Across the Region

Mass transit systems are scaling back operations as the storm intensifies:

• Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) trains are suspending overnight service, with final departures around 11 p.m.

• NJ Transit is suspending bus and light rail services by 6 p.m., while train operations may continue later depending on weather conditions.

  
  
  

Officials are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to monitor service updates closely.

City Mobilizes Thousands of Workers

New York City has activated more than 2,000 snow plows, which will begin clearing streets once snowfall accumulates to at least 2 inches. Over 2,600 sanitation workers are operating on 12-hour shifts as part of the city’s expanded storm response.

Mayor Mamdani emphasized that public safety is the administration’s top priority.

“We’re going to be doing everything within our power, across all of city government, to respond to the storm as quickly as possible,” he said during a Sunday press briefing.

Special Focus on Vulnerable New Yorkers

The city is also intensifying support for homeless residents, particularly after at least 18 people died during a January snowstorm and subsequent cold snap.

Code Blue protocols have been expanded, with additional warming centers opened and overdose prevention sites remaining open overnight. Officials confirmed that 84 people were moved into shelters Saturday, and 311 calls regarding vulnerable individuals outdoors will now be redirected to 911 to ensure faster emergency response.

Although the administration had recently resumed clearing homeless encampments, officials confirmed that no clean-ups will take place during the storm.

“Our focus over the course of this storm is not going to be on physical infrastructure,” Mamdani said. “It’s going to be on getting homeless New Yorkers inside.”

A Storm Escalating Rapidly

Just days ago, forecasters anticipated only minor accumulation. Now, the region faces a classic nor’easter capable of paralyzing roads, straining emergency services and halting public transportation.

With snowfall intensifying and winds strengthening, authorities warn that travel could become nearly impossible in some areas overnight.

Residents are advised to remain indoors, stock essential supplies and avoid venturing out until officials declare conditions safe.

FAQ

Why did New York City issue a travel ban?

Officials imposed the ban due to heavy snowfall, strong winds and whiteout conditions that could make travel life-threatening.

How much snow is expected in NYC?

Forecasts show 12 to 18 inches of snow for New York City, with higher totals possible in parts of Long Island.

Are NYC schools closed?

Yes. Public schools are closed Monday with no remote learning.

Is public transportation running?

Some services are suspended, including overnight LIRR service and NJ Transit buses and light rail. Train service may vary depending on conditions.

How strong are the winds expected to be?

Wind gusts could reach up to 55 mph, creating dangerous blizzard conditions.