AccuWeather Alert: Timing and Impact of Approaching Winter Storm

Storm Impact and Cold Air

• ❄️ This storm is expected to be more impactful than any seen in recent winters due to an exceptionally cold air mass preceding it.
• 🌡️ Temperatures are significantly below average, with Central Park experiencing single digits for the first time in nearly three years, and a high of only 17°.

Snowfall Timing and Intensity

• ⏰ Snow is expected to begin before daybreak south and west of NYC, reaching the city around 7:00 AM, and will ramp up quickly.
• 📈 Snowfall rates are projected to reach over an inch per hour by late morning, making roadway clearing difficult and travel hazardous.
• ⚠️ Sleet is expected to mix in by early to mid-afternoon, potentially reducing total snowfall but creating problematic icy conditions.

Accumulation and Ice Concerns

• 🌨️ With temperatures remaining very cold, snow will accumulate efficiently on all surfaces from the start.
• 🧊 Between a tenth and two-tenths of an inch of ice is possible, creating a glaze on top of snowfall.
• 📊 Snowfall totals are estimated at 6-12 inches along the I-95 corridor and points south/east, and 12-18 inches north and west of I-287.

Forecast Beyond the Storm

• 💨 Tomorrow will be windy with heavy snow mixing with sleet, and travel conditions worsening significantly.
• 🥶 Temperatures will remain in the low 20s or colder through the end of the month, with brighter but frigid conditions expected on Tuesday.