New York City is waking up to a weather cocktail that no one ordered—snow, sleet, freezing rain, and a whole lot of inconvenience. As of early Thursday morning, the National Weather Service has placed the region under a Winter Weather Advisory until 11:00 AM EST. If you’ve got plans to step outside, you’ll want to rethink your strategy. What starts as wet snow in the early hours will quickly turn into freezing rain, creating a slippery, hazardous mess that’s set to disrupt everything from your morning commute to your lunch plans.
This isn’t your average snow day where you can throw on a warm coat and call it good. We’re talking about ice-covered roads, slick sidewalks, and hidden dangers that could catch even the most prepared New Yorkers off guard. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect—and how to stay safe.
A Breakdown of Today’s Forecast: Snow, Ice, and Rain All in One
- Timing: The storm started early Thursday morning with wet snow falling across much of the city. As temperatures hover around freezing, the snow will quickly mix with sleet and freezing rain by mid-morning.
- Accumulation: Expect around 1-2 inches (2-4 cm) of wet snow before it turns into ice. It won’t be enough to create large snowbanks, but it’ll be just the right amount to coat surfaces and make them dangerous.
- Temperature: The high will climb to 40°F (4°C) by early afternoon, turning freezing rain into plain rain. But don’t be fooled—rain falling on top of existing ice can make surfaces even more slippery.
By late morning, most of the snow will be gone, but freezing rain could linger long enough to cause problems on untreated roads and sidewalks. The worst of the icy conditions should ease by afternoon, but caution is still key.
A Look Ahead: What the Next Few Days Hold
- Friday, February 7:
It’s a complete turnaround. The storm clears out, leaving behind mostly sunny skies and gusty winds. Temperatures will hit 44°F (6°C) during the day, but a chilly breeze will make it feel colder. At night, expect a drop to 26°F (-3°C), so bundle up if you’re heading out. - Saturday, February 8:
Clouds return, and temperatures will hover around 37°F (3°C) during the day and dip to freezing (32°F or 0°C) at night. While it won’t be a stormy day, don’t be surprised if leftover ice patches linger in shaded areas.
Why Today’s Storm Is More Dangerous Than It Seems
At first glance, this storm may not sound like a big deal—after all, 1-2 inches of snow isn’t exactly historic for New York. But what makes this storm risky is the timing and the icy mix of precipitation. Wet snow is manageable on its own, but when it’s followed by freezing rain, it turns into a perfect storm for slippery conditions.
Freezing rain is notorious for creating a thin layer of ice that’s nearly invisible, often referred to as black ice. You won’t see it until it’s too late, and by then, your tires or shoes have already lost grip. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated side streets are especially vulnerable since they freeze faster than main roads.
Public transportation isn’t immune either. Subways and buses could face delays due to slippery tracks and icy platforms, and commuters should be extra cautious when boarding trains. Slips and falls are common on days like this, so if you’re taking the subway, hold onto the railings and walk slowly.
Another concern is falling ice. In a city filled with high-rise buildings, freezing rain can coat rooftops, ledges, and construction sites with ice. As temperatures rise and the ice starts to melt, chunks can fall, posing a serious risk to pedestrians below.
Travel Tips: How to Stay Safe on Icy Roads and Sidewalks
- If You’re Driving:
- Slow down and increase your following distance. Braking on icy roads takes longer, and sudden stops can cause skidding.
- Be especially cautious on bridges and overpasses, which freeze faster than other road surfaces.
- Avoid sudden turns or lane changes. Instead, drive smoothly and steadily.
- Public Transit Users:
- Check for service updates before heading out. Icy tracks and road conditions can cause delays or cancellations.
- Be careful on station platforms, which can be slippery from freezing rain. Hold onto railings whenever possible.
- Walking in the City:
- Wear boots or shoes with good traction. Even a short walk could lead to a slip without proper footwear.
- Watch for black ice on sidewalks and crosswalks, especially in shaded areas.
- Be alert for falling ice from rooftops and scaffolding. If you see warning signs, avoid walking directly under them.
- Emergency Preparedness:
- If you must drive, carry an emergency kit in your car, including an ice scraper, flashlight, blanket, and extra phone charger.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged before heading out in case you get stuck or need help.
The Big Picture: A One-Day Mess, But Relief Is on the Way
The good news is that this storm isn’t sticking around long. By early afternoon, most of the icy precipitation will transition to rain, and by Friday, sunny skies will be back. But don’t underestimate the short-term chaos it could cause. Slippery roads, black ice, and falling hazards could make this one of those days where it’s better to be overly cautious than caught off guard.
If you can, consider working from home or delaying travel until conditions improve. If you have to head out, plan ahead, drive slowly, and be prepared for delays. The weekend looks much calmer, but for now, New Yorkers should stay alert and stay safe.
