Story perspectives

Winter Storm Buries NYC: Record Snow, State of Emergency Declared

1/26/2026

Center

Hochul Declares Emergency

A winter storm hit New York City from January 25-26, 2026, delivering over a foot of snow.
Snowfall rates reached up to 3 inches per hour, triggering travel disruptions and more than 11,400 flight cancellations.
The storm set snowfall records in New York City, Albany, Binghamton, and Rochester.
Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents to stay indoors as schools shifted to remote learning.

Right

Mamdani Enforces Remote Learning

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that schools will not have snow days during the winter storm and will instead conduct remote learning.
The decision stems from a rigid school calendar shaped by the United Federation of Teachers and recent contract negotiations that added holidays and reduced flexibility.
Critics say the policy denies children the joy of snow days because past mayors declared them obsolete.

History

Historical Context

The Great Blizzard of 1888, occurring from March 11 to 14, paralyzed the northeastern United States, causing over 400 deaths and significant economic disruption. This catastrophic storm prompted infrastructure changes, including the underground placement of telegraph and transportation lines. The January 2026 winter storm echoed this historical event, leading to extensive travel cancellations and renewed discussions on emergency preparedness for severe weather.

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Hochul Declares Emergency

A winter storm hit New York City from January 25-26, 2026, delivering over a foot of snow.
Snowfall rates reached up to 3 inches per hour, triggering travel disruptions and more than 11,400 flight cancellations.
The storm set snowfall records in New York City, Albany, Binghamton, and Rochester.
Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents to stay indoors as schools shifted to remote learning.

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