A powerful winter storm swept across the eastern United States on Monday, bringing record snow accumulation and causing massive disruptions in travel and power supply. The storm has affected millions of residents from North Carolina to Maine, extending even into parts of eastern Canada.
Snowfall totals reached historic levels in several states. Parts of Rhode Island and Massachusetts recorded close to 37 inches (94 cm), while Central Park received more than 19 inches. Authorities warned that travel in New York was nearly impossible as the storm intensified.
More than 600,000 homes and businesses experienced power outages along the East Coast. New Jersey and Massachusetts reported the most severe disruptions. Winter storm warnings were issued across the region, including North Carolina and northern Maine. Some coastal areas were expected to accumulate between 30–61 cm of snow by early Tuesday.
Rhode Island bore the brunt of the storm, with Providence receiving 36 inches of snow, surpassing the previous record of 28.6 inches set in February 1978. City officials reported towing over 300 vehicles to allow snowplows to operate and clear streets buried under deep drifts.
Strict travel bans were imposed across Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. Emergency services warned residents to stay indoors due to hazardous conditions, downed trees, and branches caused by heavy snow and strong winds. New York City came to a near standstill, closing roads, highways, and bridges temporarily, while Massachusetts limited non-essential driving and reduced speed limits on major highways.
The storm has caused major disruption to flights and ground transportation, leaving millions grappling with school closures, delayed commutes, and utility interruptions. Meteorologists described the scale of snowfall as shocking, highlighting the severity of this historic event.
