A man cross country skis through Central Park after a snowstorm hit New York January 27, 2015. Travel bans were lifted and limited public transport resumed in New York on Tuesday as a powerful winter storm and strong winds dumped perilous snow across the northeastern United States. New York city woke up to less snow than forecast, but was eerily quiet as the National Weather Service warned of life-threatening conditions along the coast from Long Island to New England. Officials launched a vigorous defense of the blanket travel bans and rail closures, saying it had been prudent to protect lives, protect equipment and get services back to normal more quickly. “You plan the best you can and you lead toward safety,” New York state Governor Andrew Cuomo told a news conference under a barrage of questioning. AFP PHOTO/Stan HONDA