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Flanders Today
By the People, for the People
Blizzard Dumps Nearly 2 Feet of Snow Across Local Area
Travel ban remains in effect as crews work to clear roads
Published on Feb. 24, 2026
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A powerful blizzard dumped nearly 2 feet of snow across the local area in Riverhead, New York on Monday, creating whiteout conditions and leaving many roads impassable. A travel ban remains in effect until 6 a.m. Tuesday as crews work to clear the roads.
Why it matters
The heavy snowfall and high winds caused significant disruptions, with vehicles, including plow trucks, getting stuck in deep snow overnight. The blizzard conditions made travel extremely hazardous, prompting a travel ban and the closure of schools and government offices.
The details
The blizzard brought tropical storm-force winds that created 10-foot snow drifts in some areas, rendering many roads impassable. Snow fell at rates of 2-3 inches per hour, leading the highway superintendent to describe the situation as "absolute chaos." While the roads are now open and passable, they remain narrowed in some places, and travel will continue to be difficult.
- The blizzard hit the local area on Monday.
- A travel ban remains in effect until 6 a.m. Tuesday.
- Schools and town government offices in Riverhead will be closed again on Tuesday.
The players
Mike Zaleski
Riverhead Highway Superintendent who described the blizzard conditions as "absolute chaos."
What they’re saying
“The situation created by snow falling at rates of two to three inches per hour, combined with high winds and blowing snow —a classic recipe for whiteout conditions— — 'absolute chaos.'”
— Mike Zaleski, Riverhead Highway Superintendent (riverheadlocal.com)
What’s next
Crews will continue working to clear the roads and restore normal travel conditions.
The takeaway
This blizzard highlights the importance of being prepared for severe winter weather, as the heavy snowfall and high winds caused significant disruptions and hazardous travel conditions in the local area.
