Authorities in New York City declared a state of emergency, including a near-total shutdown of the public transportation system and a ban on non-emergency vehicles on major streets and bridges, in response to a major snowstorm hitting the northeastern coast of the United States. The city urged all residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, as the weather conditions were described as the most severe in years, transforming the city that never sleeps into a snow-covered ghost town.
Weather forecasts and strongly worded warnings
According to the latest data from the National Weather Service, the current storm is bringing heavy snowfall, with accumulations potentially reaching 60 centimeters in some key areas. This snow is accompanied by strong winds, leading to a sharp decrease and near-zero visibility, making travel extremely dangerous and threatening lives. Authorities have warned that these conditions could persist for several hours, requiring emergency and rescue teams to be fully prepared.
Climate context and challenges of the East Coast
This storm is part of a series of deep low-pressure systems known as "Nor'easter," powerful winter storms that typically strike the East Coast of North America. While New York is accustomed to harsh winter weather, this storm is characterized by its heavy snowfall and rapid accumulation, putting the city's infrastructure to a real test. Historically, New York has experienced similar storms that brought the city to a standstill, and authorities are now working based on lessons learned from past storms to avoid prolonged power outages or catastrophic traffic accidents.
Expected economic and logistical impacts
This widespread shutdown is expected to have far-reaching economic and logistical consequences, not only at the city level but also regionally. The closure of major airports in the New York area and the disruption of train services are directly impacting air and ground travel and freight schedules across the entire East Coast. The shutdown of businesses, schools, and government offices is creating a temporary economic standstill. Snow removal crews are working around the clock to ensure vital access routes to hospitals and emergency services remain open, while millions of residents await the storm's waning to assess the damage and begin a return to normalcy.
