Table of Contents
A MASSIVE snowstorm wreaked havoc on the Northeast on February 1, 2021.
The storm is expected to create blizzard-like conditions and cause travel problems for several days.
The bull of Wall Street is seen during the snowstorm in New York CityCredit: Getty Images – Getty
What cities and states have declared a snow emergency?
Boston
Boston Mayor Marty Walsh declared a snow emergency head of the storm.
“We are asking residents and businesses to do their part by staying safe, shoveling their sidewalks and walkways, clearing catch basins and the area around fire hydrants, and by offering help to your older neighbors and residents with disabilities,” Walsh said.
A parking ban will be implemented in the city.
A mass coronavirus vaccination site in the city will not open on February 1 due to the storm.
People play with snow in Times Square in New York CityCredit: JEENAH MOON
Connecticut
Governor Ned Lamont activated Connecticut’s State Emergency Operations Center in wake of the storm.
The governor is urging people to avoid unnecessary travel.
“During this storm, we are expecting the rate of snow to come down fast, falling at rates of up to one to two inches at times, which will cause whiteout conditions that will make travel dangerous,” Lamont said.
“I am urging everyone in Connecticut to make plans now so that you can avoid all unnecessary travel throughout the day on Monday, particularly during the afternoon when snowfall rates are forecast to be at their heaviest.”
A traffic officer patrols a lightly trafficked street in Weehawken, New JerseyCredit: AP:Associated Press
New Jersey
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency in order to deploy resources.
Murphy also closed all state government offices for nonessential personnel and the state’s six mega sites that distribute Covid-19 vaccines.
“Heavy snow, coastal flooding, and high winds are expected in many parts of the state,” Murphy said.
“The safety of residents and workers is our utmost priority.
New Yorkers walk through the stormCredit: Getty Images – Getty
“Please follow all weather-related guidance and stay off the roads in order to allow access for emergency personnel.”
All New Jersey Transit trains and buses were suspended, except for the Atlantic City Rail Line.
New York Waterway ferries also were suspended.
Amtrak modified its train service, canceling some trains.
A pedestrian walks during the blizzard in New York CityCredit: Reuters
New York City
Mayor Bill de Blasio declared a state of emergency on the eve of the snowstorm.
“New Yorkers should stay home, keep the roads clear for emergency vehicles and let our plows work to keep us safe,” the mayor said in a statement.
“Make no mistake: this storm will bring heavy snowfall and it will make travel dangerous in every neighborhood in our city.”
A snow plow is seen in New York City during the stormCredit: JEENAH MOON
The storm is expected to dump as much as two feet of snow on the the Big Apple over the course of the day and is expected to be the worst blizzard in five years.
It is expected that many coronavirus vaccination appointments in the city will need to be canceled.
“This is a very dangerous storm,” the mayor told NY1.
Clay Roronoa throws a stick as he plays with his dog Elluh in Fairmount Park in PhiladelphiaCredit: AP:Associated Press
Pennsylvania
Philadelphia and other parts of Pennsylvania have declared a snow emergency.
A Covid-19 vaccine clinic will stay open in Philly, but people will have the option of rescheduling their appointments.
Pennsylvania is expected to receive at least one foot of snow.
Snow emergencies have also been declared in Harris Township and College Township.
A man clears snow in Fort Lee, New JerseyCredit: AP:Associated Press
“As this winter storm continues, the best plan of action is to stay home,” Governor Tom Wolf said.
“If you are required to travel, have all the proper safety precautions in place and stay alert for rapidly changing conditions.”
Vehicle restrictions are currently in place on several Pennsylvania highways.
“If you must travel, slow down and increase your following distance,” the governor’s website suggests.
“Most collisions in snowy and icy conditions are the result of driving too fast for the conditions or following too closely.
“Four-wheel drive may help with driving in the snow, but it does nothing to help with stopping, so leave plenty of room.
“And remember, speed limits are designed for ideal conditions. Drivers can be cited for driving too fast for the conditions, even below the speed limit.”
