New York City marked the arrival of winter with its first accumulating snowfall of the season, leaving a frosty layer across the Tri-State Area on Saturday morning. The snowfall, which began Friday evening, led to the activation of weather advisories and sparked preparations for dangerously cold conditions that will persist through the weekend.
Snowfall Patterns Across the Region
Snow totals varied across the region, with northern New Jersey and parts of upstate New York experiencing the highest accumulations. Some noteworthy preliminary snow totals include:
- Essex Falls, NJ: 4.5 inches
- Unionville, NY: 4.2 inches
- Sparta, NJ: 2.8 inches
- LaGuardia Airport, NY: 2 inches
- Elmhurst, Queens: 2 inches
Light snow tapered off by mid-morning Saturday, leaving roads coated in icy patches. The National Weather Service issued advisories for drivers, stating, “Motorists are urged to slow down and use caution traveling.”
Snowfall Accumulations and Timing
| Location | Snow Accumulation | Timing of Snow Exit |
|---|---|---|
| Essex Falls, NJ | 4.5 inches (11.43 cm) | Early morning Saturday |
| Unionville, NY | 4.2 inches (10.67 cm) | Morning Saturday |
| Sparta, NJ | 2.8 inches (7.11 cm) | Morning Saturday |
| Newark Airport | 2.2 inches (5.59 cm) | By 9 a.m. Saturday |
| LaGuardia Airport, NY | 2.0 inches (5.08 cm) | By 9 a.m. Saturday |
| Glen Cove, NY | 2.2 inches (5.59 cm) | By 10 a.m. Saturday |
Arctic Blast Intensifies Conditions
Temperatures plunged following the snowfall, with highs on Saturday reaching only the low 30s before dropping into the 20s by afternoon. Winds gusting at 20–30 mph exacerbated the chill, driving windchill values down to the teens and single digits. The National Weather Service warned of a weekend-long deep freeze, with lows possibly hitting sub-zero windchills in northern areas.
- Saturday: Highs peaked early at 30°F before plunging further; windchill ranged between 10°F and 20°F.
- Sunday and Monday: Sunshine is expected, but highs will not exceed the mid-20s. Lows in the city will hit the teens, while outlying areas may see single digits or sub-zero readings.
The New York City Office of Emergency Management issued a Cold Weather Alert, deploying outreach teams to assist vulnerable populations, including the unhoused. The alert remains in effect throughout the weekend.
City Measures to Manage Impacts
The New York City Department of Transportation announced the suspension of Alternate Side Parking regulations for Saturday to facilitate snow removal. However, parking meter rules remain in effect. Crews continue to monitor road conditions, and public advisories emphasize careful navigation of slippery streets.
“Snowfall may lead to icy sidewalks and roads,” city officials noted. Areas near central New Jersey, including western Morris and Somerset counties, experienced sleet in addition to snow, further complicating travel conditions.
Preparing for a Cold Weekend Ahead
While the snowfall has subsided, frigid air will dominate through Monday, creating hazardous conditions for outdoor activities. The forecast low of 15°F in New York City on Sunday night could set a new seasonal record. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions:
- Layer up in insulated clothing to reduce heat loss.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to the cold.
- Check on neighbors, particularly the elderly or vulnerable.
This sudden turn in weather marks a stark contrast to the relatively mild autumn and serves as a reminder of the harsh months ahead. Stay updated with live forecasts and radar alerts to prepare for the next phase of this winter’s challenges.
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