New York City gets first blizzard warning in nine years as area hunkers down

The Guardian World

by Edward Helmore

February 21, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

New York City has received its first blizzard warning in nine years as a powerful late-winter storm approaches the east coast. Issued on Saturday, the warning affects New York City, New Jersey, and nearby coastal communities. The storm, expected to arrive by Sunday, could bring over a foot of snow and wind gusts exceeding 55mph, creating hazardous conditions for residents. This blizzard warning is particularly notable as it follows another major snowstorm nearly a month ago, which left behind lingering piles of ice across the city. Such back-to-back severe weather events highlight the challenges faced by local infrastructure and emergency services in managing multiple winter crises within such a short timeframe. The storm’s intensity underscores the unpredictable nature of late-winter weather patterns, which can bring significant disruption to daily life. Transportation systems, including roads, bridges, and airports, are expected to face severe disruptions due to heavy snowfall and strong winds. Schools and businesses may also be forced to close or operate on reduced schedules. From a broader perspective, this event serves as a reminder of the impact of extreme weather conditions on urban areas. The combination of snow, ice, and high winds can strain emergency response capabilities and test the resilience of infrastructure designed to handle such events. For those in affected regions, staying informed and prepared is crucial to navigating these challenging circumstances safely. As global weather patterns continue to shift, incidents like this emphasize the importance of understanding and adapting to extreme weather events. While blizzards are not uncommon on the east coast, the rarity of a blizzard warning in New York City since 2017 adds urgency to the need for preparedness. This storm also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by urban areas in coping with severe winter conditions, making it a critical issue for readers interested in both local and global weather patterns.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/21/2026