Severe winter storm paralyzes the New York metropolitan area, grounding flights and closing schools

A major blizzard struck New York on February 22, 2026, prompting a citywide travel ban and declaration of a State of Emergency. Snowfall totals reached 35.6 cm (14.0 inches) on Staten Island and 23.6 cm (9.3 inches) in Central Park. All schools have been closed on February 23, as Mayor Zohran Mamdani declared the first traditional snow day since 2019. No remote instruction will take place, and all after-school activities are cancelled. Source