Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Tri-State Area Braces for Heavy Snowstorm and Emergencies

1/26/2026

44 5 Full Breakdown

Center

Governors Declare Emergency

The National Weather Service forecasts 8 to 16 inches of snow across the Tri-State Area this weekend.
Snowfall rates may reach 1 to 2 inches per hour, creating hazardous travel conditions, and the governors of New York and New Jersey have declared a state of emergency.
The storm will transition to sleet and freezing rain near the coast, and cold temperatures will persist into next week.

Right

Mayor Shifts Schools

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced public schools will shift to remote instruction on Monday due to hazardous winter storm weather, affecting about 500,000 students in 1,100 schools.
Mamdani said the city is prepared with technology and resources to support online learning.
Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency and urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel.

History

Historical Context

The Great Blizzard of 1888, which struck from March 11 to 14, resulted in over 400 deaths and paralyzed the Northeastern United States with up to 50 inches of snow. This catastrophic storm prompted significant changes in infrastructure, including the underground placement of telegraph and transportation lines. Today's forecast of 8 to 16 inches of snow highlights ongoing challenges in managing severe winter weather.

1 of 3

Governors Declare Emergency

The National Weather Service forecasts 8 to 16 inches of snow across the Tri-State Area this weekend.
Snowfall rates may reach 1 to 2 inches per hour, creating hazardous travel conditions, and the governors of New York and New Jersey have declared a state of emergency.
The storm will transition to sleet and freezing rain near the coast, and cold temperatures will persist into next week.

1 / 3