ABC World News Tonight with David Muir Full Broadcast - February 21, 2026

Key Concepts

• Nor'easter: A powerful storm system along the Atlantic coast of North America, characterized by heavy snow, high winds, and coastal flooding.
• Tariffs: Taxes imposed on imported or exported goods.
• State of Emergency: A declaration by a government allowing for the activation of special powers to deal with a crisis.
• Artemis Program: NASA’s program to return humans to the Moon.
• Nuclear Deal (Iran): International agreement limiting Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.
• Criminal Investigation: A formal inquiry into potential criminal activity.

Major Nor'easter Threatens East Coast

A significant Nor'easter is poised to impact the East Coast, with blizzard conditions expected from the Delaware coast to Boston. Over 50 million people are under alert. New York City is particularly vulnerable, facing a potential two feet of snow and its first blizzard warning in nearly a decade. New Jersey has declared a state of emergency starting tomorrow, urging residents to stay home. The storm follows a deadly winter storm less than a month prior that caused over 100 deaths and 20,000 flight cancellations. Currently, over 1,000 flights for Monday have already been canceled, with expectations of further disruptions. Winds are forecast to reach up to 60 mph along the coast, potentially causing power outages and coastal flooding of up to three feet during high tide. Forecaster Dani Beckstrom emphasized the combination of snow and wind will create dangerous, potentially impossible travel conditions. The storm system is expected to pull away by the second half of Monday, with moderate temperatures offering some relief through melting.

Supreme Court Ruling on Trump Tariffs & Response

The Supreme Court issued a 6-3 ruling against President Trump’s tariffs on foreign goods, stating that only Congress has the authority to impose taxes. President Trump responded by calling the decision "ridiculous," "poorly written," and "un-American," and announced plans to implement a 15% global tariff, replacing the struck-down measures. He stated, “We have alternatives. Could be more money. We’ll take in more money and be a lot stronger for it.” This move is legally permissible for 150 days without Congressional approval. Economists estimate Trump’s previous tariffs cost American families an extra $1,600 annually. The decision comes ahead of the State of the Union address, where Trump intended to highlight his economic agenda.

Rising Tensions with Iran & Military Buildup

The U.S. military is increasing its presence in the Middle East as President Trump considers a limited strike against Iran, aiming to compel a new nuclear deal. Iran has vowed retaliation for any military action. The "USS Gerald Ford" is sailing into the Mediterranean, joining the "USS Abraham Lincoln" strike group and a fleet of refueling tankers and fighter jets, bringing the total U.S. troop presence in the region to around 35,000. Personnel are being relocated from Qatar in preparation for a potential strike. Simultaneously, protests are erupting in Iran, with demonstrators chanting "Long live the King." President Trump stated, “They better negotiate a fair deal. The people of Iran are a lot different than the leaders of Iran and it's a very sad situation.” Iran warns that any attack will be met with a decisive response, targeting U.S. bases and assets.

Ongoing Investigations & Tragic Events

• Nancy Guthrie Disappearance: The search for Nancy Guthrie has expanded to Mexico, with volunteers posting missing person flyers across the border. While authorities have no evidence she was taken across the border, they are exploring the possibility.
• California Avalanche: Authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the deadly avalanche in California that claimed nine lives, investigating potential criminal negligence. All nine victims have been recovered.
• Rob & Michelle Reiner Deaths: Comedian Conan O'Brien has broken his silence on the deaths of his friends, Rob and Michelle Reiner, describing his disbelief and shock.
• NASA’s Artemis Program Delay: NASA is considering rolling back the Artemis II rocket and spacecraft for repairs, potentially delaying the launch to April or later due to a problem with the helium flow in the upper stage.
• Prince Andrew Investigation: Police are searching the former home of Prince Andrew as part of a criminal investigation into allegations of misconduct in public office related to his association with Jeffrey Epstein.

Sports & Remembrance

• Winter Games: Team USA has won a record-setting 11 gold medals at the Winter Games. The U.S. men’s hockey team will face Canada in a highly anticipated match. Hilary Knight and Evan Bates will carry the U.S. flag in the closing ceremony.
• Bill Mazeroski’s Passing: Baseball has lost Bill Mazeroski, the Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman famous for hitting the game-winning home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame after being passed over for 15 years. He famously said after the home run, “Once I hit second, I think I floated home, never touched the ground.”

Synthesis/Conclusion

The broadcast highlighted a confluence of critical events: a severe weather threat impacting millions on the East Coast, escalating geopolitical tensions with Iran, and significant developments in legal and investigative matters. The Nor'easter poses immediate risks to life and infrastructure, while the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling and the potential for military action against Iran carry long-term economic and political implications. The ongoing investigations and tragic events underscore the fragility of life and the importance of accountability. The broadcast served as a snapshot of a dynamic and challenging moment in both domestic and international affairs.