New York City, New York – Blizzard conditions will rapidly make travel nearly impossible across the five boroughs by late Sunday evening, with up to 24 inches of snow and wind gusts near 55 mph slamming I-95 and the FDR Drive before the Monday commute.
According to the National Weather Service in New York, a Blizzard Warning is in effect from 1 p.m. Sunday through 6 p.m. Monday for New York City, Long Island, northeast New Jersey, southern Connecticut and the Lower Hudson Valley. Total snowfall between 16 and 24 inches is expected, with the highest amounts along the coast. Snowfall rates could exceed 2 inches per hour Sunday evening into early Monday, while winds gusting to 55 mph may reduce visibility below one-quarter mile.
In New York City, major roadways including I-278, I-495, I-87 and the Belt Parkway will become snow-covered quickly after sunset. Whiteout conditions are likely at times overnight, particularly near exposed bridges and elevated highways. JFK and LaGuardia airports could see significant flight disruptions.
Across Long Island, totals over 20 inches are forecast from Islip to Montauk, where wind-driven snow may create drifts several feet deep. In northeast New Jersey, Newark and surrounding areas could see around 20 inches, impacting I-95 and the New Jersey Turnpike.
Residents should avoid all non-essential travel, charge electronic devices and prepare for scattered power outages caused by heavy snow and strong winds.
The heaviest snow and strongest winds taper Monday afternoon, but hazardous conditions may linger into Monday evening. Additional updates are expected as the storm progresses.
