New York Declares State of Emergency Amid Historic Winter Storm
New York City is currently hunkering down as residents await the passing of a massive blizzard that has prompted Governor Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency for the entire state. This significant weather event, named Winter Storm Fern, represents the most substantial snowfall to hit the metropolitan area in five years, leading to widespread disruptions and safety concerns.
Celebrity Reactions to the Extreme Weather Conditions
While authorities urge caution, some high-profile figures have embraced the wintry conditions with distinctive flair. Model and actress Emily Ratajkowski notably ventured outdoors, raising a wine glass amidst the fresh powder while wearing a cropped sweatshirt that revealed her bare midriff. Her outfit, completed with sweatpants, slippers, and a fuzzy hat, defied the freezing temperatures as she posed for social media.
Other celebrities opted for more sheltered approaches to the snow day. Television host Kelly Ripa shared images from her New York residence, showcasing a thick blanket of snow covering her rooftop terrace. Meanwhile, Andy Cohen documented his cozy indoor retreat, sporting a colourful hoodie and sweatpants as he waited out the storm from the comfort of his home.
Olympic Athlete Takes Advantage of Central Park Conditions
Olympic snowboarder Shaun White found himself perfectly in his element during the blizzard. He headed to Central Park with his snowboard, performing daredevil stunts that included leaping over comedian Shane Gillis and actor Chris O'Connor, much to the delight of dozens of onlookers who braved the conditions to witness the spectacle.
Elsewhere in the city, Hilaria Baldwin took her children for haircuts despite the challenging weather, documenting their snowy adventure on social media with the caption "We braved the snow storm to get fresh cuts."
Serious Impacts and Safety Warnings
The festive moments contrast sharply with the storm's severe consequences. Governor Hochul has strongly advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel as forecasters warn of potential power outages, downed trees, and nearly impassable roads. Public school buildings across New York City have been closed, with classes transitioning to remote learning to ensure student safety.
Tragically, authorities have reported at least eight fatalities in New York City between Saturday and Monday morning, with these deaths occurring outdoors as temperatures plunged dramatically. Nationwide, the storm has been linked to at least twenty-five weather-related deaths across eleven states, highlighting the dangerous nature of the extreme conditions.
Continuing Weather Challenges and Travel Disruption
The National Weather Service has issued further warnings about dangerously cold temperatures expected across the eastern half of the United States this week, with the possibility of another major snow storm developing. Forecasters predict widespread sub-zero temperatures and record cold, with wind chills potentially dropping as low as -50°F in some regions.
Transportation networks have been severely impacted, with airports experiencing massive delays due to crippling ice and snow accumulations. According to FlightAware data, over 4,800 flights have been cancelled and more than 5,100 delayed, with major hubs including Philadelphia, New York, Dallas, Washington DC, and Boston reporting significant ground delays.
Despite the challenges, many residents have found ways to enjoy the unusual weather, with sightings of skiing and sledding in iconic locations like Central Park and Washington DC's National Mall. However, authorities continue to emphasise the importance of safety precautions as the region navigates this historic winter weather event.
