East Coast Braces for ‘Nearly Impossible’ Travel as Winter Storm Intensifies
A major winter storm is bringing heavy snow and strong winds to the East Coast, prompting states of emergency and widespread travel disruptions. The National Weather Service warns of “nearly impossible” travel conditions across the affected region, with up to two feet of snow expected in some areas.
State-by-State Travel Restrictions
Connecticut
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont declared a state of emergency on Sunday and prohibited all commercial vehicles on limited access highways starting at 5 p.m. The ban excludes emergency response and recovery vehicles. Governor Lamont urged all residents to avoid unnecessary travel, advising them to reach their destinations by Sunday evening and remain there throughout the storm. FlightAware reported almost 3,500 flight cancellations within, into, or from the U.S. As of 11 p.m. On Sunday.
Delaware
Delaware Governor Matthew Meyer issued a state of emergency and a statewide driving warning, urging increased caution. Stricter rules were implemented in Kent and Sussex counties, prohibiting operation of motor vehicles unless lawfully exempted, including for essential personnel.
Massachusetts
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) will operate subway trains and buses at reduced levels on Monday, mirroring Sunday’s schedule. Rail lines will follow storm schedules, and all ferry services are suspended. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has imposed travel restrictions on certain trucks, with exemptions for deliveries of food, fuel, and medical supplies. Governor Maura Healey activated the National Guard and directed non-emergency executive branch employees to work from home, encouraging private employers to do the same.
New Jersey
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill declared a state of emergency on Saturday, effective Sunday, urging residents to use caution and stay off the roads. NJ Transit suspended services on Sunday, halting bus, light rail, and Access Link services by 6 p.m., followed by rail service suspension at 9 p.m. The operator will assess the storm’s impact overnight to determine when to resume services. State police issued a travel restriction on all vehicles—with exemptions for first responders and emergencies—from 9 p.m. Sunday to 7 a.m. Monday, excluding the New Jersey Turnpike.
New York
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in several counties. Starting at 4 p.m. Sunday, empty commercial vehicles and tandem tractor-trailers were banned from I-84 and roads south of it, including the Thruway system. Other commercial vehicles are restricted to the right lane on I-84 and roads south of it, including the Thruway system in Orange, Rockland, and Westchester counties. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has adjusted some express subway lines to local service. Long Island Rail Road service is suspended starting at 1 a.m. Monday, and Metro-North Railroad will operate on a limited schedule. MTA paratransit reservations were halted at 9 p.m. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a local state of emergency and a travel ban from 9 p.m. Sunday to 12 noon Monday, closing city streets, highways, and bridges to all but essential vehicles. The Staten Island Ferry will operate with hourly service until 6 a.m. And then every 30 minutes after.
Air Travel Disrupted
The storm has caused significant disruptions to air travel. FlightAware reported nearly 3,500 flight cancellations within, into, or from the U.S. As of Sunday evening.
Staying Informed
For the latest updates on the storm and travel conditions, please refer to the National Weather Service and FlightAware.