NYC Mayor Provides Update on Historic Snowstorm

Mayor Mamdani details city's response to over 2 feet of snow and high winds, with schools reopening and services resuming.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani held a press conference to provide an update on the city's response to the historic snowstorm that hit the region, with over 2 feet of snow and winds up to 60 mph. The mayor praised the efforts of city workers who cleared streets, kept public transit running, and responded to emergencies, as well as everyday New Yorkers who helped shovel sidewalks. He announced that schools are back in session, trash collection will resume, and most city services have returned to normal operations, though some transit delays remain. The mayor also urged caution as melting snow and ice pose risks, and encouraged residents to sign up as emergency snow shovelers.

Why it matters

This snowstorm was one of the largest on record for New York City, causing significant disruptions and requiring a major coordinated response from the city government. The mayor's update provides important information for residents on the status of critical services and public safety, as the city works to recover from the storm's impacts.

The details

According to the mayor, the snowstorm set new 24-hour records for snowfall in parts of Staten Island and the Bronx, with over 2 feet of snow and winds up to 60 mph. Over 2,600 sanitation workers utilized 3,000 pieces of equipment to clear streets, distribute 143 million pounds of salt, and plow every street at least once. The city also deployed 1,214 emergency shovelers. Despite the challenges, 99.2% of roads on Staten Island received at least one pass from snow clearing equipment. The mayor explained the decision to reopen schools, noting the importance of in-person learning and the services schools provide beyond education. An Enhanced Code Blue remains in effect to assist vulnerable residents, and the mayor urged caution around falling snow and ice from buildings.

  • On Saturday, the snowstorm arrived with high winds and over 2 feet of snow in some areas.
  • As of Monday morning, schools have reopened and most city services have resumed, though some transit delays remain.

The players

Zohran Kwame Mamdani

The mayor of New York City who provided the update on the city's response to the historic snowstorm.

New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY)

The city agency that deployed over 2,600 workers and 3,000 pieces of equipment to clear streets and distribute salt during the storm.

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What they’re saying

“Though the storm may be over, that does not mean the danger to vulnerable New Yorkers has passed. Please continue to keep an eye out for anyone at risk.”

— Zohran Kwame Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (Mirage News)

What’s next

The mayor announced that Alternate Side Parking will be suspended through the end of the week to allow residents to dig out their cars before the snow hardens into ice.

The takeaway

This historic snowstorm required a massive coordinated response from the city government and its workers, as well as the cooperation of residents, to restore critical services and ensure public safety. The mayor's update highlights the city's resilience in the face of extreme weather events and the importance of preparedness and community support.