A powerful winter storm is set to impact the New York City metro area and the Tri-State region this weekend, bringing heavy snowfall, sleet, and freezing rain. This marks the second storm in quick succession, with another round of wintry weather potentially arriving next week.
Forecasts from the National Weather Service, FOX 5 NY, and NBC New York indicate that some areas north of the city could see up to 8 inches of snow, while the NYC metro area is expected to receive between 3 and 5 inches. The timing of the storm—overnight into Sunday morning—could help minimize major travel disruptions, but authorities are urging caution as roads are expected to become slick and hazardous.
Snowfall Projections: What to Expect Across the Region
Forecast models suggest wide-ranging snowfall totals across the region, depending on location and elevation. The heaviest snowfall is expected north of New York City, where temperatures will remain below freezing for a longer duration.
Projected Snow Totals by Area
- New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island):
- 3 to 5 inches of snow, though localized areas in the northern Bronx may see up to 8 inches.
- Staten Island and southern Brooklyn and Queens could receive only 1 to 3 inches due to a mix with sleet.
- Hudson Valley (Westchester, Rockland, Orange, Putnam, Dutchess, Ulster Counties):
- 5 to 8 inches, with higher totals in the northern Hudson Valley.
- Northern New Jersey (Passaic, Bergen, Essex, Morris Counties):
- 5 to 8 inches, with localized higher amounts.
- Southern Connecticut (Fairfield, New Haven Counties):
- 5 to 7 inches, with coastal areas seeing slightly less due to a mix with rain.
- Long Island (Nassau, Suffolk Counties):
- 3 to 5 inches, with higher totals further inland.
- Central and Southern New Jersey (Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean Counties):
- 1 to 3 inches, with minimal accumulation further south.
Timing: When Will the Snow Arrive?
The National Weather Service and FOX Weather have provided a detailed timeline of the storm’s progression:
- Saturday afternoon (1 p.m. – 5 p.m.): Cloudy skies, 30 percent chance of snow developing late in the afternoon.
- Saturday evening (5 p.m. – Midnight): Snow moves in steadily, with some areas experiencing heavy snowfall rates of 1 inch per hour.
- Saturday night (Midnight – 4 a.m.): Snow intensifies and transitions to sleet and freezing rain in coastal areas.
- Sunday morning (4 a.m. – 10 a.m.): Snow tapers off, but roads remain slippery and hazardous.
- Sunday afternoon: Conditions gradually improve, though lingering slick spots may persist.
Winter Storm Alerts: What Warnings Are in Effect?
The National Weather Service has issued multiple winter storm alerts across the region:
- Winter Storm Warning
- Ulster, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, and Rockland Counties (NY)
- Northern Westchester, Passaic, and Bergen Counties (NJ)
- Southwestern Connecticut
- Timeframe: 7 p.m. Saturday – 10 a.m. Sunday
- Winter Weather Advisory
- New York City, Long Island, much of New Jersey and Connecticut
- Timeframe: 5 p.m. Saturday – 11 a.m. Sunday
The National Weather Service warns that roads, bridges, and overpasses will likely become extremely slick, making travel hazardous overnight.
Travel and Safety Concerns
With the Super Bowl scheduled for Sunday evening, officials are advising fans and travelers to plan ahead. NYC transportation authorities are preparing for disruptions:
- Alternate side parking rules suspended Saturday to allow for snow removal.
- NYC Sanitation Department has activated salt spreaders and plows ahead of the storm.
- Public transit delays possible, particularly for buses and above-ground subway lines.
The National Weather Service advises, “Persons should consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution.”
Another Storm Next Week? More Snow Possible for NYC
Meteorologists are monitoring another storm system that could impact the Tri-State area midweek, bringing additional snow chances to the region.
According to FOX Weather, an active storm track is setting up for the East Coast, with multiple chances for winter weather next week:
- Tuesday, February 11: 50 percent chance of snow, with a high near 35°F.
- Tuesday night: Snow likely, with temperatures dropping to 31°F.
- Wednesday: 30 percent chance of snow, cloudy skies, high near 37°F.
- Wednesday night: 50 percent chance of snow, with lows near 31°F.
- Thursday: A mix of rain and snow possible, with a high near 37°F.
Final Outlook: A Snowy and Slippery Weekend Ahead
With heavy snow, ice, and travel hazards expected, residents are urged to stay updated on forecasts and prepare for difficult conditions Saturday night into Sunday morning.
This storm may not be the last, as next week could bring additional snow to the NYC metro area.
