A powerful winter storm battered the US Northeast on February 23, 2026, forcing widespread school closures, major flight disruptions, and leaving hundreds of thousands without power as states declared emergencies and travel became perilous.
A winter storm moved across the northeastern United States on Monday, closing schools, disrupting travel, and leaving hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses without electricity as heavy snow and strong winds swept through the region.
States of emergency were declared in at least seven states as the storm impacted communities from Pennsylvania to Maine. Meteorologists reported snowfall totals exceeding two feet in some areas, including parts of New York, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts.
School districts across the region, including New York City, cancelled classes. Public transit systems in several states suspended services, and local authorities issued travel advisories and, in some locations, restrictions on non-essential travel to facilitate snow removal and emergency operations.
Air travel was disrupted, with flight-tracking data showing thousands of cancellations and delays at John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport. Airlines grounded a significant portion of scheduled flights during peak storm conditions.
Heavy snow and strong winds led to fallen trees and downed power lines, causing outages in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and other states. Utility providers deployed repair crews; however, restoration efforts were slowed by hazardous road conditions and ongoing weather-related risks.
Emergency management officials advised residents to remain indoors and limit travel. In New York, the governor activated National Guard personnel to assist local authorities, particularly in areas affected by significant snowfall.
Businesses and public institutions reported closures or reduced operations. Broadway performances and other events were cancelled as municipal agencies prioritised snow clearance and public safety measures.
Snowfall decreased in parts of the region later in the day, but weather officials stated that icy road conditions and snow accumulation could continue to disrupt transportation into Tuesday. Cleanup operations are expected to continue in the coming days.
Authorities said updates will be issued as conditions evolve and recovery efforts progress.
What's Your Reaction?
