New York City, NY – While much of the Northeast missed a white Christmas, a powerful snowstorm is poised to impact millions of residents immediately after the holiday, bringing heavy snow, ice, and hazardous travel conditions. Authorities are warning that major cities, airports, and highways could see significant disruptions.
Storm Timeline and Impact
The quick but impactful winter storm is expected to sweep through the region Friday into early Saturday, affecting over 60 million Americans from Philadelphia through New York City. Forecasters say this storm could produce some of the largest snow totals in years for the Big Apple.
The FOX Forecast Center projects:
- Central New Jersey through New York City into southern Connecticut: 3 to 5 inches of snow
- Locally higher amounts: 5 to 8 inches or more across New York City, northern New Jersey, and western Long Island
As a result, the National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Warnings for parts of the region, while Winter Weather Advisories are in effect across Upstate New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
Heavy Snowfall Rates Expected
Meteorologists warn that at the storm’s peak overnight Friday, snowfall rates could reach an inch or more per hour, creating slippery roads and challenging driving conditions.
By early Saturday, warm air from the south is expected to collide with cold air moving south from Canada, particularly between Philadelphia and New York City. This could cause snow to mix with sleet or freezing rain before the system moves out.
Rare Significant Snow for New York City
It has been over 1,400 days since New York City experienced more than 6 inches of snow in a 24-hour period, according to the FOX Forecast Center. This post-Christmas storm could end that streak, with the first Winter Storm Warning issued for NYC in nearly four years.
Mayor Eric Adams issued a statement urging residents to prepare for hazardous travel conditions Friday into Saturday, emphasizing that city agencies are coordinating efforts and monitoring conditions closely.
“As New Yorkers continue to celebrate the holidays and prepare to celebrate the new year, they should also prepare for hazardous travel conditions,” Adams said.
Travel and Safety Advice
Officials advise residents to:
- Limit travel during the heaviest snowfall
- Prepare for delays at airports and on highways
- Exercise caution on snow- and ice-covered roads
Authorities emphasize that emergency services and snow removal teams are ready to respond as the storm moves through the region.
How are you preparing for post-Christmas travel amid this snowstorm in the Northeast? Are you rescheduling plans or staying home? Share your strategies and experiences in the comments below.
