Brutal Blizzard Disrupts NYC Travel, Schools, City Services

NEW YORK, NY — The travel ban ended at noon, but officials advise limiting travel to essential trips. Public transit is preferred as roads remain hazardous.

Ferry service is reduced. Libraries remain closed with reopening updates expected later in the day. Schools will resume in-person classes tomorrow. Alternate side parking is suspended for the week.

Trash collection is paused for February 23 and 24, with updated schedules to be released tomorrow. Recycling is delayed into next week. Property owners must maintain four-foot cleared paths on sidewalks.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the school closures were a result of the city’s 180-day instruction mandate and the timing of the historic blizzard, which struck during a scheduled school break.

Many students and teachers risked being stranded trying to return for Monday classes. Unlike previous storms, officials could not prepare in advance by sending students home with devices.

“All of these factors brought us to the conclusion that we should apply for a waiver from the state, and we are incredibly grateful to the state commissioner of education for granting it,” Mamdani said.

Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels thanked students, families and staff for their cooperation.

“Based on clear guidance and assessment of conditions, all schools will be fully open and operational tomorrow,” Samuels said. “Facilities, custodial, and school teams have been working around the clock to remove snow and ice, clear paths and prepare classrooms for students’ return."

Normal programming and extracurricular activities will resume. Samuels said the City will continue to monitor conditions.