A major winter storm blanketed New York City and parts of the northeastern United States in heavy snow, causing widespread travel chaos during the post-Christmas holiday period. The storm, which struck on December 27, 2025, brought the heaviest snowfall to New York in nearly four years, disrupting air and ground transportation across the region.
New York City’s Central Park recorded 4.3 inches of snow, the highest accumulation since January 2022, according to the U.S. National Weather Service. Other areas in New York state saw up to 7.5 inches of snow, with significant snowfall also reported in neighboring New Jersey and Connecticut. Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for more than half of New York’s counties in anticipation of the storm’s impact.
The snowfall led to massive disruptions in air travel, with over 900 flights cancelled, primarily in the New York area, and more than 8,000 delays nationwide as of Saturday. Flight tracking website FlightAware reported that the cancellations and delays affected major airports, exacerbating the challenges for holiday travelers. The storm’s timing during a busy travel weekend compounded the difficulties for those returning home after Christmas.
On the ground, road conditions deteriorated rapidly, with hazardous driving reported along key corridors like I-95. The National Weather Service warned of black ice forming on roads and bridges as temperatures remained below freezing. Authorities urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to exercise extreme caution if venturing out.
In response to the severe weather, New York activated a “code blue” protocol to bring homeless individuals indoors from the cold. Emergency services were on high alert, and local governments deployed snow removal teams to clear streets and highways. The state of emergency allowed for coordinated efforts to manage the storm’s aftermath and ensure public safety.
The winter storm was part of a larger system affecting much of the United States. In the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes regions, forecasts predicted heavy snow and whiteout conditions, with more than a foot of snow expected in some areas. Meanwhile, parts of the Northeast faced ice accumulation warnings, and bitter wind chills were reported in northern states like North Dakota and Minnesota.
Despite the severe conditions in the North, southern regions experienced unseasonably warm temperatures, with highs in the 70s in some areas. This contrast highlighted the storm’s intensity and its disruption to normal weather patterns. The event underscored the challenges posed by extreme weather during peak travel times.
As the storm moves eastward, authorities continue to monitor conditions and provide updates. Travelers are advised to check flight statuses and road conditions before embarking on journeys. The storm serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness during winter months, especially in densely populated urban areas like New York City.
