Major Snowstorm Hits US East Coast, Declaring Emergencies in New York City and Other Areas

Kathmandu. An emergency has been declared in various areas, including New York City, after a snowstorm, considered the largest on the US East Coast in nearly a decade, intensified starting Sunday.

According to the weather forecast, the storm is expected to continue until Monday afternoon. Approximately 40 million people are under a blizzard warning.

This includes the areas of Boston, Philadelphia, and Long Island. A winter storm warning has been issued for an additional 19 million people. According to the US National Weather Service, up to 24 inches of snowfall is expected in some locations.

By Monday midnight local time, many places in the Northeast region were already covered in heavy snow. Reports indicate that up to 10 inches of snow has accumulated in parts of New York and New Jersey.

New York City Mayor Johana Mamdani imposed a ban on all non-essential vehicles across the city's five boroughs from 9 PM Sunday until 12 PM Monday. Roads, highways, and bridges, except for emergency services, have been closed. All schools have been closed for Monday. The ban also includes e-bikes used for food delivery.

Officials have strongly urged against unnecessary travel. "Stay home for your safety and stay off the roads," Mayor Mamdani stated.

The snowstorm has also severely impacted air travel. According to flight tracking website FlightAware, more than 5,000 flights within, into, or out of the US were canceled on Monday alone. This is the second major winter storm to hit New York this year, following a three-week cold snap that began on January 19, which resulted in 19 deaths.