New York City – Winter storm warnings were issued across New York, New Jersey and Connecticut as a powerful system moved through the region, initially expected to deliver New York City’s most significant snowfall in years. While snowfall totals in the city ended up lower than forecast, ice and black ice quickly emerged as the bigger danger, according to NBC News reporting on the storm’s impact.
Snow Totals Fell Short in the City but Spiked Elsewhere
Central Park recorded about 4 inches of snow, marking its highest total since 2022. Despite early forecasts, New York City and much of New Jersey received less snow than anticipated.
Heavier snowfall hit surrounding areas, with northern suburbs, eastern Long Island, and parts of Connecticut seeing more than 9 inches. Both New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency as conditions worsened during the storm’s peak.
Heavy Snowfall Made Travel Nearly Impossible
The most intense period of snow fell between 5 p.m. Friday and 6 a.m. Saturday, when snowfall rates reached 1 to 2 inches per hour at times. The rapid accumulation caused dangerously low visibility and made road conditions treacherous across the Tri-State Area.
New York City’s Department of Emergency Management issued a travel advisory, warning residents that roads would become slick—especially overnight—and urging drivers to avoid unnecessary travel.
National Weather Service Issues Black Ice Warning
As cleanup efforts continued Saturday, the National Weather Service issued a special notice warning of black ice, citing dropping temperatures that could cause slushy snow to refreeze on roads.
Black ice is especially hazardous because it is difficult to see, increasing the risk of sudden loss of vehicle control. Drivers were advised to slow down and allow extra time for travel.
The agency warned that black ice can form on:
- Roadways
- Bridges and overpasses
- Untreated sidewalks and surfaces
City Crews Work Around the Clock
The NYC Department of Sanitation has been operating nonstop since Friday night, deploying 2,700 employees on 12-hour shifts to salt and clear streets.
“By the time this is all over, we will have put down probably at least 50 million pounds of salt citywide,” said Deputy Commissioner Joshua Goodman. “We’ve been on every roadway, but you really have to exercise caution about that black ice just because you never know what’s there.”
City officials also reminded property owners that they are required to clear sidewalks. Enforcement agents will begin issuing fines ranging from $100 to $350 for noncompliance.
Temperatures Expected to Ease Conditions
Relief is expected soon. Temperatures are forecast to rise above freezing on Sunday and potentially reach around 50 degrees on Monday, which should significantly reduce the risk of icy road surfaces across the region.
Until then, officials continue to urge caution as lingering ice remains the primary hazard following the storm.
