Bomb Cyclone Dumps Over 13 Inches of Snow on New York

New York City was virtually frozen on Monday morning as "bomb cyclone" Winter Storm Hernando dumped over 13 inches of snow on many areas, accompanied by wind gusts up to 60 mph and blizzard conditions.

According to the National Weather Service, Staten Island recorded over 13 inches of snow; Mott Haven (Bronx) approximately 12 inches; Flatbush and Washington Heights over 11 inches. Freehold, New Jersey, recorded up to 19 inches. Snow fell at a rate of 2–3 inches per hour from New York to Massachusetts early Monday.

Travel Conditions Nearly Impossible

The National Weather Service described travel conditions as "nearly impossible." Heavy snow combined with strong winds created blizzard conditions along the Northeast coast, severely reducing visibility and making travel extremely hazardous.

Total snowfall in some areas of the tri-state region was forecast to reach 20 inches before the storm departs Monday evening. Blizzard warnings were in effect until 6 PM.

Over 250,000 Without Power, Region-wide Emergency

Over 250,000 people along the East Coast lost power, with over 100,000 households in New Jersey alone. New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for the city's five boroughs, Long Island, and several other counties. The entire state of New Jersey was also placed under a state of emergency.

A travel ban was in effect from 9 PM Sunday until noon Monday. New York streets were virtually deserted, with only snowplows operating.

Over 5,500 Flights Canceled, Public Transportation Paralyzed

All NJ Transit services were suspended. Long Island Rail Road and the New York subway system experienced cancellations, delays, and schedule adjustments. Nationwide, over 5,500 flights were canceled and approximately 9,000 delayed, according to FlightAware; New York and Boston airports were the most severely affected.

Schools Closed, First Snow Day Since 2019

Council Member Zohran Mamdani announced the closure of New York public schools, calling it the "first old-fashioned snow day since 2019" after the disappointing online learning experience during the previous storm. The city mobilized additional snow removal personnel, who began work Sunday evening.

The storm's effects were expected to continue throughout the day.