"Authorities in New York City have issued urgent warnings for residents to remain indoors as the Big Apple continues to battle a severe winter storm. Mayor Zohran Mamdani implored residents to avoid all non-essential travel, highlighting the dangers posed by gusts of up to 60 miles per hour and up to 24 inches of snow in some areas of eastern Staten Island. “Since last night, New York City has been in near-blizzard conditions,” Mayor Mamdani said. “So far, the storm has dropped 16 to 19 inches on most parts of our city, with parts of eastern Staten Island reporting over 24 inches of snow. It has also brought extreme winds with gusts reaching up to 60 miles per hour. Judging from current forecasts, the worst has passed; conditions have begun to moderate, but there is still more to come.” Mayor Mamdani praised city agencies for their tireless work preparing for the storm, and implored residents to adapt their behaviour. “If you can, remain indoors. If you must leave your home, please rely on public transit,” he said. “The fewer passenger and commercial vehicles that need to be assisted, the quicker we can respond with ploughs and emergency vehicles. And if you can cook at home, please do so instead of ordering food to be delivered, given the conditions.” Mamdani also shared the news that school children across the city will have been dreading. "I hope our students enjoy their snow day today and stay warm and safe throughout, but I do have some tough news to share: school will be in person tomorrow," he announced. "You can still pelt me with snowballs when you see me!" Temperatures are forecast to remain below freezing for the next several days, and officials caution that travel could remain hazardous, particularly in the early mornings and evenings."