A major winter storm categorized as a “bomb cyclone” is currently impacting the northeastern United States, causing significant disruptions and forcing millions to remain indoors. This storm, affecting areas from Virginia to Maine, is characterized as one of the most intense to strike the region in decades. Described scientifically as “bombogenesis,” a bomb cyclone occurs when a storm’s central pressure drops by at least 24 millibars within a 24-hour period, leading to rapid intensification. This phenomenon results in a powerful low-pressure system that pulls in cold Arctic air, generates blizzard conditions, and results in heavy snowfall that exceeds the capabilities of most urban infrastructure to manage.

Extent of the Storm’s Impact

The bomb cyclone is unleashing severe weather across the Northeast, with blizzard warnings issued for more than 40 million residents. States affected include New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, showcasing the storm’s widespread impact. In New York City specifically, officials are predicting this storm could potentially rank among the top ten most severe events in the last 150 years. As of midnight local time, snow accumulation was already reported at over a foot in Staten Island, with conditions expected to worsen throughout the evening.

Emergency Measures in New York City

Responses from Surrounding States

Other states within the storm’s reach, such as Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts, have also declared states of emergency. Both New York and Massachusetts have activated their National Guard to assist in relief efforts. Consequently, over 1,000 flights across New York City’s major airports—including LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark—have been canceled, with a large percentage of flights arriving at JFK scrapped. Additionally, all regional rail services have been suspended, and more than 100,000 customers throughout the Northeast are reported to be without power.

Linking Climate Change to Extreme Weather Events

Experts in climate science have indicated that although climate change may lead to a decrease in the overall frequency of winter storms, those that do occur are becoming increasingly intense. Disruptions to the polar vortex, a band of cold air typically contained over the Arctic region, are believed to be more common due to climate change, allowing Arctic air and severe storms to reach dense population centers. The current storm follows closely on the heels of another weather event that resulted in over 100 fatalities, raising concerns over the increasing severity of such occurrences. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has succinctly stated that the worst conditions may still be forthcoming.

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