New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has instituted a comprehensive citywide travel prohibition in anticipation of a severe winter storm forecasted to impact the US East Coast. The emergency measure, announced during a press briefing on Sunday evening, will remain in effect from 9:00 PM February 22 until 12:00 PM February 23, 2026.
The directive mandates the closure of all vehicular traffic across New York’s thoroughfares, including streets, highways, bridges, and tunnels. The restriction encompasses private automobiles, commercial trucks, scooters, and electric bicycles. Mayor Mamdani emphasized that the unprecedented action aims to ensure public safety during what meteorologists predict could be one of the most significant winter weather events in recent years.
Critical exemptions to the travel ban have been established for essential personnel and emergency circumstances. First responders, healthcare workers, utility crews, and other designated essential employees will maintain transportation access throughout the duration of the emergency declaration. Additionally, residents requiring travel for urgent medical needs or other bona fide emergencies will be permitted movement despite the general prohibition.
The mayor’s decision follows coordinated efforts with state emergency management officials and weather forecasting agencies that project potentially hazardous conditions, including heavy snowfall, strong winds, and reduced visibility. The travel prohibition represents the most severe level of emergency response implemented by the city administration to mitigate storm-related risks and facilitate unimpeded emergency operations.