New York City Braces for First Snowfall of the Year
New York City is preparing for its first snowfall of the year, with the winter weather forecasted to hit on Monday, coinciding with Three Kings Day. The city has issued a winter weather alert in anticipation of the snow, which is expected to begin in the morning and continue into the evening.
Potential Impact on Commuters
Emergency Management Department Commissioner Zach Iscol has warned of a potentially “challenging” commute on Monday evening due to the snowfall. While less than an inch of accumulation is expected, Iscol cautioned about a “reasonable worst-case scenario” of 2 inches or more. He advised all New Yorkers to use mass transit, allow for extra travel time, monitor the forecast, and exercise caution to navigate the slippery road conditions.
Preparations and Forecast
The city’s sanitation department has taken proactive measures by filling more than 700 salt spreaders and pretreating roads, bike lanes, and sidewalks with liquid brine. Meteorologist Ryan Ramsey from the National Weather Service stated that a low-pressure system passing to the south of the city will likely result in less than an inch of snow, with the potential for more if the storm shifts northward.
Ramsey also highlighted that while areas like DC and Virginia may experience a significant winter storm, New York City is expected to receive minimal snowfall. However, he emphasized that the city will face colder temperatures, dropping to the low 20s or teens on Monday night and remaining below freezing through Thursday. He advised residents to bundle up and wear extra layers when outdoors to combat the chilly conditions.
Outreach to Vulnerable Populations
In preparation for the cold weather, the Department of Social Services has issued a Cold Blue Weather Alert for unhoused individuals, mobilizing outreach teams to provide them with access to shelters, drop-in centers, and other resources. New Yorkers are encouraged to subscribe to the city’s emergency notification system, Notify NYC, for updates and safety tips during severe weather events. Stay informed and stay safe as New York City braces for the winter storm ahead.
