New York City officials have declared a local state of emergency and issued a travel ban as a severe snowstorm threatens public safety and disrupts daily life. The emergency order takes effect at 9 p.m. on Sunday, 22 February 2026, and will remain in force until 12 p.m. on Monday, 23 February 2026. The measure comes as heavy snowfall is expected to impede traffic, delay emergency response vehicles, and disrupt essential deliveries. City authorities warned that millions of residents could be affected by the closures.
Mayor of New York City stated that the travel ban is necessary to 'protect life and property and allow for rapid and effective snow removal.' Streets, highways, bridges, and tunnels will be closed to vehicular traffic, including commercial trucks, electric bicycles, scooters, and mopeds.
