New York City experienced its heaviest snowfall in nearly four years, leading to widespread travel disruptions across the region. Central Park recorded 4.3 inches (11 cm) of snow, the highest accumulation since January 2022, while other areas of New York state saw up to 7.5 inches, according to the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS).

The winter storm prompted New York Governor Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency for more than half of the state's counties. The declaration aimed to mobilize resources and personnel to address the challenges posed by the heavy snowfall and icy conditions.

The storm's impact extended beyond New York, with neighboring New Jersey also declaring a state of emergency. Fairfield County in Connecticut reported 9.1 inches of snow.

The travel sector bore the brunt of the storm. On Saturday, nearly 700 domestic flights were canceled, primarily in the New York area, according to the tracking website FlightAware. More than 3,000 flights nationwide experienced delays. The cancellations and delays stranded passengers and disrupted travel plans during the weekend.

The recent weather event highlights the vulnerability of major urban centers to extreme weather. Similar snowstorms have caused significant disruptions in cities across the globe, from Tokyo to Moscow, underscoring the need for robust infrastructure and preparedness measures. The economic impact of such disruptions can be substantial, affecting businesses, tourism, and daily commuting patterns.

While the worst of the storm had passed by Saturday morning, temperatures remained low, raising concerns about icy conditions and potential hazards for pedestrians and drivers. Authorities urged residents to exercise caution while traveling and to allow extra time for commuting. The NWS issued advisories for continued cold weather and potential for black ice formation.