Northeast Braces for First Measurable Snowfall of the Season
The Northeast United States is preparing for its first significant winter storm of the season, with a system expected to bring measurable snowfall to New York City and surrounding areas starting Saturday night. Meteorologists are forecasting a range of snow accumulations, from light dustings to heavier amounts in certain regions.
This incoming weather event follows a period of unseasonably cold temperatures that affected the central and eastern U.S. in the first two weeks of December. As the winter season is now in full swing, residents are being advised to take precautions and stay informed about developing conditions.
Expected Snowfall Totals and Timing
The storm’s impact will vary across the region, with different areas anticipating distinct snowfall amounts.
New York City and Tri-State Area:
- New York City itself is projected to receive between two and two-and-a-half inches of snow across all five boroughs.
- Neighboring New Jersey could experience anywhere from one to five inches.
- The broader tri-state area (New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut) is generally expected to see totals ranging from one to three inches.
Further North:
- Areas situated further north, including most of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, are likely to witness less than one inch of snow.
Southern Regions:
- In contrast, South Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland could face heavier accumulations, with totals potentially ranging from three to five inches. The National Weather Service has indicated that the greatest chance for accumulations exceeding five inches lies along the I-95 corridor and immediately to the southeast in southern New Jersey.
The precipitation is anticipated to begin as rain on Saturday evening, with the changeover to snow expected around midnight. Forecasters predict that temperatures will drop below freezing by this time, transforming the rain into snow. The storm is expected to last for approximately seven to eight hours, with the system likely moving out over the Atlantic Ocean by Sunday morning, around 10 a.m. Eastern Time.
Official Advisories and Recommendations
In anticipation of the winter weather, New York City has issued a weather alert that will remain in effect through Sunday. The city’s administration is urging residents to exercise caution on the roads and to prepare for the incoming snow.
Mayor Eric Adams emphasized the city’s readiness, stating, “The winter season is in full swing, including all the winter weather that comes with it. All New York City agencies are prepared for this system, and we continue to monitor conditions closely.”
He also advised New Yorkers on personal preparedness: “New Yorkers should all prepare too – avoid driving and give yourself extra travel time with public transit if you do need to travel, stay alert to changing conditions, and sign up for Notify NYC for real-time information updates.”
The National Weather Service has placed an advisory in effect for New York from 10 p.m. Saturday until 1 p.m. on Sunday.
Potential for Significant Snowfall in Other Areas
While New York City anticipates moderate snowfall, some areas further south are bracing for potentially more substantial accumulations. Northern West Virginia and adjacent regions could see snow totals ranging from five to nine inches overnight.
An alert from the National Weather Service issued for these areas strongly recommends delaying travel. For those who must travel, extreme caution is advised. The advisory suggests preparing a winter storm kit, which should include items such as tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets, and extra clothing. Essential survival items like water, a first aid kit, and anything else that could assist in case of being stranded are also recommended.
Ohio and western Pennsylvania are also expected to experience snowfall, with accumulations predicted to be between four and seven inches.
Lake-Effect Snow Warnings
In addition to the main storm system, lake-effect snow warnings are in effect for central and western New York. These warnings are expected to continue through at least Sunday afternoon, indicating the potential for localized, intense snowfall in those areas.
This developing weather situation underscores the importance of staying informed about forecasts and advisories as the storm progresses. Residents across the affected regions are encouraged to make necessary preparations to ensure their safety and minimize disruptions.