NYC Digs Out After Historic Blizzard, State of Emergency Remains in Effect

New York City is slowly recovering from a historic blizzard that dumped nearly two feet of snow across the five boroughs, with Central Park recording 19.7 inches by Monday afternoon . While a travel ban was lifted at noon on Monday, officials are urging residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel as plowing efforts continue.

Storm Impacts and Travel Disruptions

The powerful winter storm, described as a bomb cyclone, brought the city to a near standstill. Snowfall totals varied across the region, with LaGuardia Airport receiving 22.5 inches and John F. Kennedy International Airport recording 20.2 inches . Despite the lifting of the driving ban, Mayor Zohran Mamdani implored residents to stay off the roads to facilitate snow removal and ensure access for emergency vehicles .

Public transportation also faced significant disruptions. Subway service was reduced, and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) will resume service on six branches starting at 4 a.m. Tuesday: Ronkonkoma, Huntington, Babylon, Oyster Bay, Montauk, and Port Washington . Metro-North Railroad will operate on a Saturday schedule with approximately two-thirds of regular service. Staten Island Railway service is still being restored .

City Services and School Closures

Trash pickup has been paused for Monday and Tuesday. Public schools were closed on Monday for a traditional snow day and will reopen on Tuesday . Alternate side parking regulations are suspended through Sunday, March 1 . New York City public libraries will reopen on Tuesday, with New York Public Library locations opening at noon .

Safety and Community Response

Mayor Mamdani reported no outdoor deaths among the homeless population, attributing this success to proactive emergency outreach and increased shelter capacity . He encouraged residents to check on their neighbors and engage in indoor activities, suggesting options like watching fireplace videos or connecting with family .

Despite the hazardous travel advisory remaining in place until midnight Monday, the Blizzard Warning issued by the National Weather Service has been canceled . The city remains in a state of emergency.