Northeast U.S. Recovers from Snowstorm Disrupting Flights, Closing Schools

Millions in the northeastern United States faced significant challenges on Tuesday as they began to recover from a major snowstorm. This storm, one of the strongest in a decade, resulted in flight cancellations, disrupted transit systems, and school closures across the region.

Northeast U.S. Snowstorm Overview

The winter storm blanketed the Northeast with record-breaking snow totals. Areas in Rhode Island recorded over 90 centimeters of snowfall, exceeding totals from the historic Blizzard of 1978. The National Weather Service classified the storm as a “classic bomb cyclone/nor’easter.”

Storm Impacts

• Flight cancellations: Approximately 2,200 flights were canceled on Tuesday, impacting New York, New Jersey, and Boston airports.
• Power outages: Hundreds of thousands experienced power failures, particularly in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Delaware.
• School closures: Major school districts in Boston and Hartford canceled classes, while New York City kept schools open for over 900,000 students.

Recovery Efforts

By Tuesday morning, many roads reopened and public transportation was gradually restored. Some families faced difficult commutes, with parents expressing concerns about the decision to return students to school.

Nearly 63 percent of New York City students attended school, a decrease from the average attendance rate of around 90 percent seen last year. Many teachers were absent, prompting the city to enlist more than 5,000 substitutes for the day.

Weather Outlook

As the storm moved north, the National Weather Service advised that another storm from the Great Lakes region is expected. Although not projected to be as severe, this new weather system could add to the existing snowfall.

Snow and its Aftermath

On a lighter note, the storm allowed for some winter fun. Residents engaged in snowball fights and created snow sculptures, contributing to a lively atmosphere despite the challenges faced. In New York City, the police commissioner criticized a massive snowball fight in Washington Square Park, labeling it “disgraceful.”

Cleansing Operations

To aid the recovery, city workers in New York plan to deploy snow melters, which utilize warm water to melt large quantities of snow. Similar efforts are underway in Providence, Rhode Island, where city officials are using multiple sites for snow disposal amidst community concerns about pollution.

This snowstorm has left a lasting impact on the Northeast, highlighting both the challenges and resilience of its residents as they adjust to harsh winter conditions.