Community

Blizzard Conditions Slam Rockland County as Powerful Bomb Cyclone Moves Through Region

Published

3 months ago

February 23, 2026

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — February 23, 2026 — A rapidly intensifying winter storm that developed into a powerful bomb cyclone has brought blizzard conditions to Rockland County, blanketing the region in heavy snow and battering it with strong, gusting winds.

The storm, part of a larger Northeast nor’easter system, intensified off the East Coast before pushing into the Lower Hudson Valley late Sunday into Monday. Forecasters warned that the system met the criteria for “bombogenesis,” meaning its central pressure dropped rapidly as it strengthened — a hallmark of some of the most severe winter storms to impact the region.

Heavy Snow and Dangerous Winds

Rockland County saw sustained periods of heavy snowfall overnight, with rates at times reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour. Snow totals across the county are estimated between 15 and 20 inches, with localized higher amounts in elevated areas.

Wind gusts approaching 50 mph created whiteout conditions across major roadways including the New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287) and the Palisades Interstate Parkway. Blowing and drifting snow significantly reduced visibility, making travel extremely hazardous.

State of Emergency and Travel Restrictions

County officials declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm’s peak, urging residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Plow crews have been working continuously to keep primary roads passable, though secondary and residential streets remain snow-covered in many communities including New City, Nanuet, Spring Valley, and Stony Point.

Public schools across Rockland County closed, and many municipal offices suspended operations. Officials emphasized that stranded vehicles not only put drivers at risk but also hinder snow removal operations.

Power Outages and Infrastructure Concerns

The combination of heavy, wet snow and strong winds has led to downed trees and scattered power outages throughout the county. Utility crews are assessing damage and prioritizing restoration efforts, though officials caution that some residents could remain without power until conditions fully improve.

Residents are advised to use generators safely, keep heating vents clear of snow buildup, and check on elderly neighbors during the prolonged cold.

Cleanup and Recovery

While snowfall is beginning to taper, wind gusts and blowing snow continue to complicate cleanup efforts. Officials warn that roads may remain slippery as temperatures fluctuate, potentially creating icy conditions overnight.

Emergency management teams continue coordinating response efforts and urge residents to monitor local alerts for updates.

Authorities remind residents that even after the snowfall ends, drifting snow and fallen limbs can pose ongoing hazards. Travel is discouraged until plowing operations are complete and visibility improves.

Community

Brian Burns Hosting NY Giants Celebrity Softball Game at Clover Stadium May 30

Published

22 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Brian Burns is bringing football fans and families together for a fun-filled charity event this spring as the annual New York Giants Celebrity Softball Game returns to Clover Stadium on Saturday, May 30.

The celebrity softball showdown will feature current and former New York Giants players competing against one another on the baseball diamond. Burns will captain a team made up of current Giants players, while former Giants running back Brandon Jacobs will lead a veteran squad featuring players from the Giants’ Super Bowl XLII and XLVI championship teams.

Fans can expect appearances from several popular NFL stars and former Giants greats, including Jaxson Dart, Cam Skattebo, Isaiah Likely, Arvell Reese, Ahmad Bradshaw, Amani Toomer and Shaun O’Hara, with additional guests expected to participate throughout the evening.

A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit the Hype 4 Life Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Brian Burns and his brother Stanley McClover. The foundation is dedicated to supporting families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders and raising awareness within communities nationwide.

Longtime Giants superfan Joe Ruback — better known to fans as “License Plate Guy” — shared his excitement about the event’s return.

“Getting this amazing group of athletes together for a high-energy, fun-filled day, all while supporting an incredible cause like Hype 4 Life, never gets old,” Ruback said.

The evening will feature more than just softball. Fans attending the event will also enjoy a dodgeball competition, a home-run derby and opportunities to interact with players throughout the night. Attendees can additionally enter a raffle for a chance to win a custom New York Giants-themed golf cart.

Event Schedule:
• Parking lot opens — 11 a.m.
• Gates open — 2 p.m.
• Dodgeball — 5 p.m.
• Home-run derby — 6 p.m.
• Celebrity softball game — 7 p.m.

Tickets start at $50 and are available through SpidaGame.com, where fans can also find updated rosters and event details.

The Hype 4 Life Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit inspired by Stanley McClover’s son, “Champ,” who is on the autism spectrum and is also Brian Burns’ nephew. Through fundraising events and outreach efforts, the organization works to support autism awareness initiatives and families navigating ASD challenges.

Ruback, one of the most recognizable Giants fans, is famous for wearing a lanyard of New York Giants license plates around his neck at games and fan events. Outside of football, he also serves as Athletic Director at the Biondi School in Yonkers, New York.

Community

Gran Fondo Bicycle Race Brings Energy and Traffic Delays to Rockland County

Published

1 day ago

May 17, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

With detours and some traffic delays throughout the day, many Rockland residents chose to make the best of the situation and enjoy the atmosphere as the Gran Fondo bicycle race made its way through Rockland County. Families, spectators, and local supporters gathered along the route to cheer on riders, turning the event into a fun and energetic community experience despite the temporary disruptions.