Historic Storm Paralyzes the Streets (Image Credits: Cdn01.justjared.com)
New York City – A punishing blizzard transformed the ‘Today’ show into an overnight campout for its anchors and crew.[1][2]
Historic Storm Paralyzes the Streets
The Blizzard of 2026 slammed into the tri-state area starting Sunday evening, February 22, dumping up to 18 inches of snow in spots and prompting unprecedented measures.[3] City officials enforced a strict travel ban from 9 p.m. that night until noon the next day, halting all non-emergency vehicles on streets, highways, and bridges. Snowplows and salt trucks worked nonstop, yet sidewalks turned slushy and roads emptied out.
Schools across New York City closed for a snow day, which Mayor Mamdani endorsed as a well-deserved break that could stretch into a long weekend. Al Roker praised the decision on air, noting kids finally got their winter treat. The storm marked the first official blizzard in the city in a decade, catching residents off guard after years of milder winters.[1]
Al Roker’s Brave Commute Steals the Show
Veteran meteorologist Al Roker braved the elements with Instagram videos that captured the chaos. In one clip filmed en route to Midtown Manhattan, he announced the team’s plan amid swirling snow: “We’re going in early because they’re shutting down the New York City streets at 9 o’clock. We’re going to have a little sleepover, the folks at the Today show. It’ll be fun.”[2]
The next morning, Roker walked two blocks from his overnight spot to Studio 1A, filming deserted Fifth Avenue. “So far, this blizzard is living up to its reputation,” he reported, urging viewers to stay safe indoors. His footage showed iced food carts and response crews in action, highlighting the storm’s grip on the city.[1]
Cast Reunites for an Overnight Huddle
The early arrival paid off as anchors checked into nearby hotels to dodge the shutdown. Jenna Bush Hager described the scene on TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle: “We all had a sleepover. We all spent the night at a hotel down the road.” Sheinelle Jones explained the logistics, saying many stayed close because early-morning drives proved impossible after roads closed at 9 p.m.[1]
Jones added a humorous note: “I think we’re getting old, though, because I feel like normally we’d all like meet up, maybe have a glass of wine. Everybody’s like, asleep at 8:30.” The group included Hoda Kotb, back for her third week filling in; Craig Melvin; Carson Daly; Laura Jarrett; and others. Savannah Guthrie remained in Arizona amid the search for her missing mother, while Dylan Dreyer reported from Long Island.[2]
- Hoda Kotb: Returned to co-host despite the weather.
- Craig Melvin: Joined the overnight crew in studio.
- Jenna Bush Hager: Shared sleepover stories on air.
- Sheinelle Jones: Opted for a nearby hotel after bedtime routines.
- Carson Daly and Laura Jarrett: Part of the resilient team.
Studio 1A Broadcasts Through the Snow
Despite the whiteout, the February 23 broadcast rolled on from Rockefeller Plaza. Guests like Olympic snowboarder Chloe Kim and actor Tracy Morgan appeared in person, while Laura Linney joined via video, snowed in elsewhere. NBC’s Vicky Nguyen also walked in after an overnight hotel stay to discuss consumer tips.
Dreyer, cheeks frozen outdoors, admitted feeling rusty after years without such fieldwork. The closed Plaza kept fans away, but the team’s spirit shone through, turning adversity into camaraderie.[1]
Key Takeaways
- The Blizzard of 2026 delivered NYC’s first blizzard in 10 years, with 12-18 inches of snow and a full travel ban.
- ‘Today’ anchors like Al Roker turned necessity into fun with a “little sleepover” at nearby hotels.
- Broadcasts continued seamlessly, showcasing the morning show’s dedication amid chaos.
This episode underscored the unyielding commitment of broadcast teams, proving snowstorms can’t silence morning television. How would you handle a blizzard-forced sleepover? Share your thoughts in the comments.
