Unusual snowstorm in New York. Photo: Shutterstock The world's largest city is on lockdown: Authorities issue an emergency decree due to an unusual snowstorm.
The mayor of New York City has signed Emergency Order No. 3, declaring a local state of emergency following an unusual snowstorm expected to hit the city.
According to the official announcement, starting at 9:00 PM on Sunday (February 22, 2026) and until 12:00 PM on Monday (February 23, 2026), all streets, roads, bridges, and tunnels in New York City will be closed to vehicle traffic in order to allow for quick and safe snow removal and ensure the operation of emergency vehicles.
The decision was made in light of the assessment that the storm is expected to disrupt traffic, limit emergency services' operations, and delay the delivery of essential products.
The order includes exceptions for essential vehicles only, including:
- Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) buses and Access-a-Ride services
- Government and federal emergency vehicles
- Ambulances, rescue vehicles, and aid organizations
- Vehicles for transporting food, medicin,e and fuel
- Electric and infrastructure company vehicles for emergency repairs
- Essential workers in healthcare, food, fuel, communications, hotels and other essential services
- Vehicles transporting essential workers
- Vehicles approved by the city
Any violation of the order may be considered a Class B misdemeanor.
City Hall offices will be closed to the public on Monday (February 23). Essential employees will report to work as usual, and non-essential employees will be allowed to work remotely.
New York City Public Schools (NYCPS), including educational institutions operating in city buildings, will be closed, except for buildings used as heating centers.
Alternate Side Parking rules will be lifted on Monday. The suspension may be extended depending on the progress of snow removal.
The Consumer Protection Authority will monitor prices to prevent exploitation or price gouging during the emergency period.
The order takes effect immediately and is expected to remain in effect for five days, unless revoked earlier.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid non-essential travel, prepare for transportation disruptions, and monitor official updates.
The New York Police Department also issued a statement saying, "As the blizzard continues to intensify, our officers will be out there keeping the city safe. We remind all New Yorkers that a travel ban is in place for non-essential vehicles, with limited exceptions, from 9 PM tonight until 12 PM tomorrow. For your safety, stay indoors."