Powerful winter storm disrupts travel across US Northeast

February 23, 2026 / 7:33 PM

Sharjah24 - WAM: Local authorities in New York City announced on Monday the complete shutdown of the city’s transportation network, permitting movement only for emergency purposes, as a powerful winter storm swept across the northeastern coast of the United States.

Severe weather warnings

The National Weather Service warned that the storm could bring snowfall totals of up to 60 centimetres in certain areas, rendering travel “extremely dangerous.”

Officials also cautioned that strong winds combined with heavy snowfall may trigger power outages. Snow has already begun covering major city landmarks, significantly reducing visibility and creating hazardous conditions.

State of emergency declared

A state of emergency has officially taken effect, including the closure of streets, highways, and bridges to cars, trucks, and all types of bicycles.

Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors and avoid all nonessential travel, describing the system as the most severe winter storm to strike the region in the past decade.