NEW YORK — New Yorkers, it’s time to prepare for the first accumulating snowfall of the season.
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has placed all five boroughs under a weather alert for the weekend as a fast-moving snowstorm barrels toward the city. The National Weather Service warns that hazardous conditions are expected to begin late Saturday evening, around 10 p.m., and will persist through early Sunday morning.
While officials are urging calm, they are also stressing the need for vigilance, as this initial snowfall presents unique hazards for travelers.
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The Snowfall Forecast: Where to Expect the Most
The latest projections indicate that New York City will see between 2 to 3.5 inches of snow. However, not all areas will be equally affected. Residents in areas like Staten Island, southern Brooklyn, and southeastern Queens should prepare for the higher end of the accumulation forecast.
NYCEM Commissioner Zach Iscol issued a critical reminder for the public. “While we are not expecting a major storm, we’re expecting snow will stick to roads and sidewalks,” said Commissioner Iscol. “That first accumulating snowfall can catch people off guard and quickly create slippery conditions.”
It’s a classic New York scenario: a moderate amount of snow, but enough to create immediate, slick problems, especially for those venturing out after dark on Saturday or early Sunday.
City Agencies Mobilize for Rapid Response
The City has been in high-gear preparation, determined to keep the five boroughs moving safely.
The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) is leading the charge on road treatment. DSNY crews have already begun pre-treating critical roadways with brine to prevent ice from bonding to the pavement. The department also has more than 700 salt spreaders fully loaded and ready to deploy the moment the snow begins to fall.
“All New York City agencies are prepared for this system, and we continue to monitor conditions closely,” stated New York City Mayor Eric Adams. His message to the public was clear: “New Yorkers should all prepare too — avoid driving and give yourself extra travel time with public transit if you do need to travel.”
Transit Operations: A Smooth Ride, With Caution
For many, the subway and rail lines are the only way to move the city in bad weather. The MTA has taken proactive steps to mitigate weather-related service disruptions.
MTA workers have been deployed across the system to salt and clear platforms and other exposed surfaces. Furthermore, the transit agency confirmed they are ready to dispatch debris and deicer trains to keep tracks clear and ensure service continuity.
- Subway Trains, LIRR, and MetroNorth: Expected to operate according to their regular schedules.
- Bus Service: Will be subject to adjustments based on localized road conditions throughout the city.
A Call for Community: Safety is a Shared Responsibility
This impending snowfall is more than just a transit headache; it’s a reminder of the shared civic responsibility that defines the character of New York. As we cover these preparations here on NY Buzz, we echo the sentiments of city officials.
Commissioner Iscol concluded with a vital appeal to the community: “We urge everyone to use caution when traveling, check on neighbors who may need assistance, and stay informed by signing up for Notify NYC.”
Staying off the roads will allow DSNY to work more efficiently, and lending a hand to an elderly or mobility-impaired neighbor can make a crucial difference in your community this weekend.