A cold front will usher in bone-chilling temperatures and a possible wintry mix of rain and snow in New York City on Thursday
A cold front will usher in bone-chilling temperatures and a possible wintry mix of rain and snow in New York City

New York City is preparing for a significant winter storm expected to impact the region this weekend, bringing heavy snow, hazardous travel conditions, and lingering disruptions into the start of next week. Weather officials urge residents to plan ahead as conditions are forecast to deteriorate rapidly once snowfall begins.

According to the National Weather Service, this storm has the potential to be one of the more disruptive snow events the city has experienced in recent years, primarily due to the amount of snow expected over a relatively short period and the cold air that will follow.

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When Will the Storm Hit New York City?

The National Weather Service says snow is expected to begin in the New York City metro area late Saturday night, most likely around midnight or shortly after. Snowfall is forecast to become steadier overnight and continue through most of Sunday.

The most impactful period is expected from Sunday morning into early Sunday afternoon, when snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour at times. Snow may taper off late Sunday night or early Monday, but travel impacts are expected to linger as cold temperatures keep roads and sidewalks icy.

How Much Snow Is Expected?

Forecast models continue to show widespread, plowable snow across the city and surrounding areas.

Expected snowfall totals include:

  • New York City: generally 10 to 16 inches

  • Northern New Jersey and Hudson Valley: 12 to 18 inches

  • Long Island and coastal Connecticut: 8 to 14 inches

Meteorologists caution that snowfall totals may vary by neighborhood, and small changes in the storm’s track could shift heavier amounts from one area to another.

What Are the Biggest Concerns for NYC?

For New York City, the main concern is hazardous travel caused by heavy snow. Unlike areas farther south, significant icing from freezing rain is not expected, as temperatures should remain cold enough for mostly snow.

Behind the storm, below-normal temperatures are forecast to persist into early next week. This may allow snow and ice to remain on untreated surfaces, extending travel difficulties even after snowfall ends.

Travel Impacts: Roads, Transit, and Airports

City officials are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the height of the storm, especially on Sunday.

  • Roads: Conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly during periods of heavy snow, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and secondary streets.

  • Public transit: Subways and buses are expected to operate, but delays and service changes are possible, especially on above-ground routes.

  • Air travel: Major airports serving the region — JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark — are likely to experience flight delays and cancellations from Saturday night through Sunday, with residual disruptions possible into Monday.

Power Outages and City Preparedness

Widespread power outages are not currently expected, but isolated outages remain possible, particularly where heavy snow and gusty winds affect trees and power lines. Utility crews and city agencies are preparing plows, salt trucks, and emergency personnel ahead of the storm.

Pigeons fly over people on a snow day in Central Park in the Manhattan borough of New York City on December 14, 2025
Pigeons fly over people on a snow day in Central Park in the Manhattan borough of New York City

What New Yorkers Should Do Now

Weather officials recommend residents take steps to prepare before conditions worsen:

  • Complete errands before Saturday evening

  • Avoid driving during peak snowfall if possible

  • Charge phones and backup batteries

  • Stock food, water, medications, and pet supplies

  • Monitor official forecasts and city alerts

Checking on elderly neighbors or those with limited mobility is also encouraged.

FAQ: NYC Snowstorm — What to Know

When exactly will snow start?
Snow is expected to begin late Saturday night, most likely between midnight and early Sunday morning.

When will conditions be worst?
Sunday morning through early afternoon is forecast to be the most hazardous period due to heavier snowfall rates.

Will this storm include ice or freezing rain?
No significant icing is expected in New York City. Precipitation should fall mostly as snow.

Should I drive during the storm?
Officials strongly discourage nonessential travel during heavy snowfall due to dangerous road conditions.

Will schools or offices close?
Decisions will depend on local conditions. Delays or closures are possible Monday if impacts linger.

How long will the effects last?
Even after snow ends, icy roads and cold temperatures could cause disruptions into Monday or Tuesday.

The Bottom Line

This winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow and significant travel disruptions to New York City from late Saturday through Sunday. While conditions should gradually improve, lingering impacts are likely into the start of the workweek due to cold temperatures and remaining snow.

New Yorkers are advised to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and give city crews time to clear roads and sidewalks.

Trusted Weather Forecast Sources for NYC Residents

As conditions evolve, forecasters stress the importance of relying on official and frequently updated sources. New Yorkers are encouraged to monitor the following trusted outlets for the latest forecasts, warnings, and real-time updates:

Official Government Forecasts

  • National Weather Service – New York Office
    Website: https://www.weather.gov/okx
    The most authoritative source for snowfall forecasts, winter storm warnings, advisories, and timing details specific to NYC and the surrounding region.

  • NYC Emergency Management
    Website: https://www.nyc.gov/site/em
    Provides city-specific alerts, emergency guidance, transit advisories, and preparedness information during winter storms.

Major National Weather Providers

  • Weather.com
    Website: https://www.weather.com
    Offers hourly forecasts, snowfall maps, radar, and travel impact updates tailored to ZIP codes across New York City.

  • AccuWeather
    Website: https://www.accuweather.com
    Known for detailed snow accumulation maps, storm timelines, and neighborhood-level forecasts for NYC.

Local NYC Media Weather Teams

Read more: Trusted Weather Forecast Sources Americans Can Rely On During a Major Winter Storm