Ahead Of Major Snowstorm, New York Mayor Orders Citywide Travel Ban

Last Updated:February 22, 2026, 23:19 IST

Mamdani orders New York City travel ban amid historic blizzard, with up to 1.5 feet of snow and strong winds expected. Essential workers exempted.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Sunday ordered citywide travel ban ahead of major storm.

From 9pm Sunday to 12pm Monday a “state of emergency closes the streets, highways and bridges of New York City for all traffic, cars, trucks, scooters and E bikes," Mamdani told reporters at a press conference.

He added that the ban will not affect essential workers and even locals needing to travel due to emergencies.

New York City and much of the Northeast are bracing for a historic winter storm, as meteorologists warn that a powerful blizzard could blanket the region in feet of snow, disrupt travel, and create life-threatening conditions. The city has issued a blizzard warning for the first time in nearly 10 years, underscoring the severity of the approaching storm.

Also Read: Air India Cancels All Flights To And From New York As Massive Snowstorm Hits US East Coast

The National Weather Service said snow and storm alerts stretch from the Mid-Atlantic region to the Northeast. Heavy snowfall and powerful winds are expected to peak between Sunday and Monday.

Forecasters predict up to 1.5 feet (46 cm) of snow in and around New York City, including Long Island. This is the city’s first blizzard warning since 2017.

Also Read: Deadly Winter Storm Grips US As Deep Freeze Continues, Hudson River Fills With Ice

Strong winds of 25 to 35 mph (40 to 56 kmph), with gusts reaching up to 55 mph, are likely on Sunday night, especially in coastal areas from New Jersey to south-eastern New England. Officials have warned that the mix of heavy snow and high winds could lead to coastal flooding, dangerous travel conditions and possible power cuts.

Washington DC and Baltimore are currently under a winter storm watch as authorities prepare for worsening weather across the region.

News world Ahead Of Major Snowstorm, New York Mayor Orders Citywide Travel Ban

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