NOAA Warns of Potential Bomb Cyclone Bringing Heavy Snow and High Winds to East Coast

Forecasters flag risk of significant winter impacts from Baltimore to Boston on February 22-23

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A newly released NOAA Day 3–7 U.S. Hazards Outlook is highlighting a corridor of potential heavy snow and high winds from Baltimore north through Philadelphia, New York City, and up to Boston between February 22 and February 23, 2026. The map outlines a coastal zone where significant winter impacts could develop if a rapidly strengthening storm system, known as a bomb cyclone, takes shape offshore.

Why it matters

Bomb cyclones can produce heavy snowfall, damaging wind gusts, and hazardous marine conditions, posing a significant threat to communities along the I-95 corridor. This potential storm system could disrupt travel, cause power outages, and create dangerous conditions for residents in major East Coast cities.

The details

The NOAA outlook clearly outlines a coastal swath that includes Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston, highlighting 'Heavy Snow' and 'High Winds' for February 22–23. Offshore waters also show a separate area labeled for 'Significant Waves' during the same period. The placement of these hazard zones suggests the greatest impacts would be focused along the I-95 corridor, particularly in coastal and near-coastal communities. Forecasters caution that the phrase 'potential' does not equal certainty, and small shifts in the storm's track could move the heaviest precipitation farther offshore or closer inland.

  • The hazard outlook covers February 21 through February 25, but the highlighted winter weather threat is specifically centered on February 22–23.
  • The most significant impacts, if realized, would occur Sunday into Monday.

The players

NOAA

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a scientific agency within the United States Department of Commerce that focuses on the conditions of the oceans, major waterways, and the atmosphere.

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What’s next

Residents in Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City, Boston, and surrounding coastal communities should monitor forecast updates closely over the coming days.

The takeaway

This potential storm system highlights the need for East Coast communities to be prepared for the possibility of significant winter weather impacts, including heavy snow, high winds, and coastal flooding, as a rapidly intensifying bomb cyclone could develop and affect the region.