New York, Feb 25 – A powerful winter storm swept across the northeastern United States on Monday, bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and widespread disruptions to transportation and power infrastructure. Cleanup operations were underway Tuesday as forecasters monitored another potential weather system later this week.
Heavy Snowfall and Blizzard Conditions
The storm intensified rapidly offshore, meeting the criteria for a “bomb cyclone,” according to the National Weather Service. Several areas across Rhode Island and eastern Massachusetts reported snowfall totals exceeding two feet, while nearly 20 inches were recorded in Central Park in New York City.
Coastal communities experienced wind gusts surpassing 80 miles per hour, leading to whiteout conditions and hazardous travel. State authorities urged residents to remain off the roads during the height of the storm.
Flights Canceled, Transit Services Disrupted
Air travel was heavily affected, with thousands of flight cancellations reported Monday and Tuesday. Data from FlightAware showed major disruptions at airports serving New York, Boston, and Newark.
Public transportation systems also faced interruptions. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) reported service suspensions and delays across portions of its subway, commuter rail, and bus networks, though limited service gradually resumed as conditions improved.
Hundreds of Thousands Without Power
Heavy, wet snow combined with strong winds caused downed trees and power lines across multiple states. According to outage tracking data, more than 400,000 customers across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and surrounding areas were without electricity at the peak of the storm. Utility crews continued restoration efforts into Tuesday.
Schools Closed; Cleanup Continues
School districts in major metropolitan areas, including New York, Boston, and Philadelphia, canceled in-person classes Monday, with some shifting to remote instruction. Officials said reopening decisions would depend on road conditions and ongoing snow removal efforts.
Municipal crews worked overnight to clear highways, local roads, and transit routes as residents began digging out. While conditions improved Tuesday, the National Weather Service warned that another winter system could approach later in the week, potentially complicating recovery efforts.
The storm marks one of the most significant winter weather events of the season for the Northeast, testing infrastructure and emergency response systems across the region.
