Cold air bites early across New York State, and winter signals are sharpening fast.
By Sunday, December 14, light snow may coat streets and sidewalks across New York City, raising early travel concerns and signaling the season’s first real winter test.
According to the National Weather Service in New York, hazardous weather is not expected today. However, attention shifts to the weekend as the first accumulating snow of the season becomes possible Saturday night into Sunday morning. Forecast guidance suggests a few inches of snow could fall in parts of the region, enough to create hazardous travel conditions, especially during the early hours.
Temperatures remain cold enough to support snow. Daytime highs trend near the freezing mark Sunday, while overnight lows dip into the 20s. That setup raises concern for slushy pavement refreezing, especially on untreated roads, bridges, and ramps. Drivers should plan extra time and prepare for reduced traction by early Sunday.
Meteorologists are also tracking a broader winter pattern across the eastern U.S. Arctic air continues pushing south, reinforcing a cold snap that keeps winter weather locked in through early next week. While snowfall totals remain uncertain, models hint at a winter tease, with light flakes possible before skies clear later Sunday.
Lake-effect snow will re-intensify north and west of the city, reinforcing colder air across the region. Gusty winds Sunday night may add a biting feel and lower visibility for drivers.
Five-Day Outlook for New York City
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high near 40°F
- Sunday: Chance of snow, high near 32°F
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 30°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 33°F
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 41°F
