Winter is making a dramatic comeback! A series of storms is set to hit the city, bringing a dangerous mix of snow, sleet, and rain. While no official warnings have been issued yet, the unpredictable nature of these systems means that conditions could worsen quickly. Whether you’re planning to travel, commute, or just step outside this weekend, you’ll want to stay prepared.
Current Conditions
Right now, the city is experiencing mostly clear skies with temperatures hovering around 37°F (3°C). It may feel calm at the moment, but the weather is about to take a sharp turn.
What’s Coming Next?
The upcoming forecast shows a rollercoaster of winter conditions, with snowfall, icy roads, and even the risk of flooding.
- Friday, February 14: A mix of sunshine and clouds will give the city a brief break before a powerful storm moves in for the weekend. Highs will reach 39°F (4°C), with nighttime temperatures falling to 28°F (-2°C).
- Saturday, February 15: The real trouble begins. Expect cloudy skies with on-and-off snow and sleet in the afternoon. While snowfall will be light, slick roads could make travel dangerous. Highs will hit 36°F (2°C), with temperatures staying above freezing overnight at 34°F (1°C).
- Sunday, February 16: The biggest concern of the weekend. A milder but stormy day will bring periods of heavy rain and even a chance of thunderstorms. With the ground already frozen from previous cold spells, water could quickly accumulate, leading to ponding on roadways. Highs will reach 47°F (8°C), but a sharp drop to 24°F (-4°C) overnight could lead to icy conditions by Monday morning.
How This Could Impact NYC
As the storm system sweeps through the region, it’s likely to cause significant disruptions.
- Treacherous Roads: The mix of snow, sleet, and rain could make driving extremely hazardous, particularly on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. Freezing rain may also create black ice, which is nearly impossible to see until it’s too late.
- Flooding Risk: Sunday’s heavy rain could overwhelm drainage systems, leading to street flooding and dangerous travel conditions. Low-lying areas and spots with poor drainage will be especially vulnerable.
- Possible Power Outages: Wet snow combined with gusty winds may bring down power lines, leaving some neighborhoods in the dark. Freezing rain could also add weight to trees and wires, increasing the risk of outages.
What You Need to Do Now
To stay safe during this winter storm event, here’s what you should do immediately:
- Limit Travel: If you don’t have to go out, stay indoors, especially on Saturday afternoon and Sunday. If you must drive, allow extra time and be cautious of ice and flooding.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Charge your devices, have flashlights and batteries ready, and stock up on essentials in case of an outage.
- Watch for Flooding: Avoid walking or driving through flooded streets—just six inches of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet, and one foot of water can carry away a car.
- Dress for the Cold: Temperatures will fluctuate, so layer up and be prepared for sudden drops. If you get wet from rain or snow, change into dry clothes as soon as possible to avoid hypothermia.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with real-time updates from the National Weather Service and local authorities. The situation could change quickly, so check for new alerts before heading outside.
Final Warning
New York is no stranger to winter storms, but this one brings a mix of threats that could catch people off guard. From slippery roads and ice to flooding and power outages, the city is in for a rough weekend. If you haven’t already, now is the time to prepare. Stock up, stay alert, and be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at us next
