New York City, January 5, 2025 — A powerful winter storm swept through New York City today, bringing several inches of snow and creating widespread disruptions across the metropolitan area. The snowstorm caused significant delays at major airports, including LaGuardia and JFK, as well as major traffic snarls throughout the city. Local authorities are working tirelessly to clear roads, and residents are being urged to stay indoors as temperatures continue to plummet.
Major Disruptions at Airports and on Roads
As the storm intensified early this morning, snow blanketed the city, with some areas receiving up to 8 inches of snow by midday. The inclement weather grounded dozens of flights at LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy International airports, with airlines struggling to maintain schedules as snow and high winds made air travel hazardous.
Airport authorities reported long delays for passengers, with several flights either canceled or diverted. At LaGuardia, travelers reported waiting for hours for rebookings, while at JFK, many incoming flights were delayed for hours before landing. Additionally, ground transportation to and from the airports was significantly impacted, with many travelers opting for taxis, which faced heavy congestion due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.
Meanwhile, in the city’s streets, snow-covered roadways have created chaos for commuters. Traffic jams were reported across all five boroughs, with major highways, such as the FDR Drive and the Cross Bronx Expressway, suffering from stalled cars and collisions caused by slick roads. Public transit also faced delays, as the snow slowed down buses and subway services.
“It’s been a nightmare trying to get anywhere,” said Maria Sanchez, a Brooklyn resident who was stuck in traffic for over two hours. “I had to cancel my appointment because the streets are a mess. I’ve never seen anything like this in January.”
Authorities Urge Caution, Temperatures Plummet
The storm comes as New York City faces a significant drop in temperatures, with wind chills pushing the thermometer into sub-zero territory. Local authorities are urging residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary and to avoid unnecessary travel. Emergency services have been on high alert as snowfall continues to accumulate and the freezing temperatures make for dangerous conditions.
“We’re asking all New Yorkers to stay inside as much as possible and be cautious if you must go out,” said NYC Department of Emergency Management spokesperson Jack Henderson. “Our teams are working around the clock to keep the streets clear, but the cold is a serious concern, and we don’t want anyone caught in these conditions unnecessarily.”
Snow Removal Efforts and Storm’s Impact on City Services
City workers are out in full force, with hundreds of plows and salt spreaders working to clear streets, but the heavy snow and ongoing snowfall are making the effort difficult. Sidewalks have remained icy, causing hazards for pedestrians.
Schools across the city have reported closures, and a number of businesses have shut their doors early. City officials have announced that essential services, including police and fire departments, are fully operational, though they are also dealing with weather-related challenges.
“We’re facing one of the biggest snowstorms in recent years, but our response teams are doing everything they can to minimize disruptions,” said NYC Mayor Olivia Grayson, who visited the Department of Sanitation’s snow command center earlier today. “We want to assure New Yorkers that we are ready for the worst, and we’ll continue to do everything in our power to restore normalcy as quickly as possible.”
What to Expect for the Rest of the Day
As of 3 p.m. ET, the snowstorm shows no signs of letting up. Forecasters are predicting an additional 2 to 3 inches of snow before the system moves out of the area by early evening. Temperatures are expected to remain frigid overnight, with a low near 14°F (−10°C) and wind chills making it feel even colder.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the entire New York metropolitan area, advising residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions. The storm’s full impact on New York’s economy and daily life will likely continue to be felt for several days.
Preparing for the Aftermath
With conditions expected to improve by Saturday morning, the city is preparing for a potential cleanup effort over the weekend. Crews will continue to clear roads and sidewalks while monitoring any lingering issues such as power outages or blocked roadways. The Department of Sanitation is asking residents to keep their cars off the streets to allow for more effective plowing and snow removal.
For now, New Yorkers are bracing for more snow, bitterly cold temperatures, and the inevitable disruptions that come with a major winter storm. Local authorities are encouraging everyone to take precautions and stay safe as they weather the storm.
