Trio of storms set to pound the NYC area, with the first bout of snow and slush arriving Thursday

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Trio of storms set to pound the NYC area, with the first bout of snow and slush arriving Thursday

Winter weather is making a strong appearance across the tri-state area. After a system passed through Sunday night, we’re now monitoring three more systems expected between now and next week. These will bring a mix of snow, sleet, freezing rain, and rain, affecting commutes and weekend plans. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect.

First System: Arrives Early Thursday Morning

The first system will move in during the early hours of Thursday, right in time to impact the morning commute.

  • Initial Conditions: Expect light snow at the start. Although not heavy, it can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, especially untreated ones. If you’re driving, allow extra travel time and drive cautiously.
  • Transition to Mixed Precipitation: As warmer air pushes in during the day, snow will change to sleet, freezing rain, and eventually rain. This shift happens because the temperature above the ground warms up while the surface remains cold.
  • Midday Icy Conditions: By midday Thursday, areas like northwest New Jersey and the Hudson Valley will experience freezing rain, leading to slick roads. While major ice accumulation isn’t expected, even a thin glaze can be dangerous.
  • Evening Commute: The evening will be rainy for most areas, with icy patches lingering further north and west. The combination of melted snow and rain can create slushy conditions, making travel tricky.

Snowfall Estimates:

  • Hudson Valley and North Jersey: Around 1 inch or more
  • Higher Elevations (mountains): Over 3 inches
  • Snow totals are uncertain because the rain will melt some of the earlier snow accumulation.

Second System: Late Saturday into Sunday

The next round of wintry weather arrives late Saturday, continuing into Sunday morning.

  • Similar Pattern: It will start as snow, then shift to ice and rain.
  • Weekend Impact: While it won’t affect weekday commutes, it will disrupt weekend plans. If you have errands or activities, aim for early Saturday or late Sunday to avoid the worst conditions.
  • Icy Mix: Expect a messy mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain during the transition period, making roads hazardous.

Third System: Mid-Next Week

The final system in this wintry stretch is expected mid-next week.

  • Still Developing: The exact details are unclear since it’s far out, but current forecasts suggest significant snowfall before switching over to ice and rain.
  • Potential for Heavy Snow: This could be the best chance in the next 10 days to see measurable snowfall across the tri-state area.

Safety Tips for Traveling:

  • Drive Cautiously: Reduce speed, especially on untreated roads.
  • Check Weather Updates: Forecasts can change quickly with these systems.
  • Allow Extra Time: Icy roads and slushy conditions can slow down travel.
  • Stay Prepared: Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, like blankets, water, and a flashlight.

The tri-state area is bracing for a busy stretch of winter weather with three systems lined up over the next week. From slippery morning commutes to a messy weekend and the possibility of heavy snow next week, it’s important to stay informed. Check for regular weather updates, plan your travels wisely, and take safety precautions when heading out in wintry conditions.

SOURCE

Tom Vander Woude

Tom Vander Woude ('20) is from Grand Rapids, MI, and was a sports contributor to the Wake Forest Review. He covered various athletic events and provided analysis on sports-related topics at Wake Forest University.

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