New York City braces for winter storm onslaught
Doyle RiceThe 20 million people of the New York City metro area are bracing for the impacts of the winter storm that's now predicted to bury the city under up to a foot of snow, snarling travel, closing schools and disrupting routines.
"A major winter storm is expected late Saturday night Jan. 24 into Monday Jan. 25," the National Weather Service said. "The heaviest snow is likely to occur Sunday morning into early Sunday evening."
The double punch of below-zero weekend wind chills and a barrage of snowfall has the weather service saying people “should consider delaying all travel" from Sunday, Jan. 25, through Monday, Jan. 26.
How much snow will fall in NYC?
Preliminary forecasts show 8-12 inches of snow is expected for much of the tri-state area, including New York City, the Hudson Valley, nearly all of New Jersey and into Connecticut, according to NBC4 in New York. Areas along the coast may see slightly lower totals.
The Northeast will get hit hardest Sunday afternoon and evening, with residual light snow early Monday, NBC4 reported. "Expect a travel mess. Parents are anticipating school closures or remote learning, too," the outlet said.
It would potentially be one of the biggest snowstorms for New York City in recent years. The last time Central Park saw over 12 inches was in early February 2021, when over 17 inches fell.
Storm impacts
According to the weather service, roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow.
What to do if you must travel
People should consider delaying travel from Sunday, Jan. 25, into Monday, Jan. 26, the weather service said. "If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution. Make sure your car is winterized and in good working order."
"Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, including such items as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you become stranded."
State of emergency declared
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency at a news conference Jan. 23.
"The entirety of New York is under this state of emergency, which will allow officials to deploy resources more efficiently, according to the governor," CBS news reported.
Hochul spoke about the freezing temperatures expected, which will feel like below zero. She warned residents to know the signs of frostbite, especially if they have to be outside during the dangerously cold weather.
Frigid temperatures raise risk of pipes freezing
As temperatures fall, freezing pipes can cause damage to houses and apartments that require costly repairs. The Yonkers' Department of Public Works shared the following tips to keep pipes from freezing:
- Eliminate cold drafts near water pipes.
- Tightly close doors and windows to the outside and eliminate drafts from crawl spaces.
- Fill cracks in walls and around windows.
- Turn off water to garden hose connections at an inside valve and drain the exposed piping before freezing temperatures set in.
- Open the door to the room where the pipes are located to allow warmth to circulate.
- Place a lighted bulb near water pipes. (Never use open flames.)
- Wrap pipes in insulation or heat tape.
- Open cabinet doors below the sink to allow warm air to reach the pipes.
Tips for preventing frostbite
Bundle up before you head outside, and dress warmly in layers of windproof clothing. Items such as a scarf, pair of gloves and a hat that covers the ears can help prevent hypothermia and frostbite. Be sure to protect your feet by wearing warm socks and waterproof boots.
If you start to feel cold, start shivering, or feel a "pins and needles" sensation or numbness, go indoors to prevent frostbite from setting in.
Doyle Rice is a national correspondent for USA TODAY, focusing on climate and weather.
Contributing: The Journal News/lohud.com