NYC Declares State Of Emergency, Imposes Citywide Travel Ban as 'Bomb Cyclone' Threatens Up to 2 Feet of Snow

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani declared a state of emergency and ordered a citywide travel ban as a powerful winter storm — described by forecasters as a "bomb cyclone" — heads toward the Northeast.

At a press briefing, Mamdani said all city streets, highways and bridges will be closed to non‑emergency traffic beginning at 9 p.m. on Sunday and remaining in effect until noon on Monday. The ban covers all vehicles, including cars, trucks, scooters and e‑bikes. Narrow exemptions apply only to emergency responders and critical service workers performing essential duties.

Storm Forecast And Expected Impact

Forecasters warned the storm could drop up to 2 feet of snow along the I‑95 corridor, with New York City, Boston and Philadelphia forecast to receive 18–24 inches. Washington, D.C., is expected to see 5–8 inches, while nearby Baltimore's totals were revised downward. Meteorologists also warned of sustained high winds with gusts up to 70 mph and the potential for widespread power outages as conditions intensify through Sunday night.

Snow in Prospect Park in Brooklyn on Jan. 17, 2026.

Travel Disruptions And City Preparations

The storm has already disrupted travel: more than 7,000 flights were canceled across the Northeast as of Sunday afternoon. In response, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for the city, and officials said outreach teams have been mobilized to assist vulnerable residents.

The New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) announced it is hiring temporary, per‑diem shovelers to clear snow and ice from public areas, including bus stops, crosswalks, fire hydrants and step streets. Pay starts at $19.14 per hour and rises to $28.71 per hour after 40 hours in a week. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, able to perform heavy physical labor and legally authorized to work in the U.S.; DSNY noted additional eligibility requirements apply.

Public Response And Safety Advice

The mayor's emergency measures and cleanup plans drew criticism from some public figures who questioned the speed of snow removal. City officials said the restrictions are intended to protect public safety, keep roads clear for emergency vehicles, and allow crews to restore utilities and clear streets effectively during and after the storm.

Safety tips: Avoid nonessential travel during the ban, follow official city alerts, keep an emergency kit and monitor local weather and transit updates. If you are eligible for DSNY work and able to help, consider applying to support cleanup efforts.