Snow Arrives Amid Forecast Uncertainty (Image Credits: Unsplash)
New York City – Light snowfall coated roads and sidewalks across the New York metro area late Sunday into early Monday, delivering one to three inches in many spots as a departing storm clashed with cold air.
Snow Arrives Amid Forecast Uncertainty
Snowflakes began falling in New York City and on Long Island by late Sunday evening, right on cue with predictions from the National Weather Service.[1] Forecasters had warned of totals between one and two inches, with isolated pockets reaching three inches, though the storm’s exact track introduced some doubt beforehand.[1] A northerly path favored broader snow coverage, while a southern shift risked lighter precipitation or rain.[1]
The system, fresh from dumping rain in the Southeast, accelerated northeastward. Accumulations proved modest overall, sparing the region a major event after heavier storms earlier in the season. Streets in areas like Woodside, Queens, already bore remnants of prior snowfalls. Conditions eased by Monday morning as the storm departed.
Snowfall Breakdown by Region
Different parts of the tri-state area experienced varying intensities, with northeastern New Jersey and Long Island’s South Shore seeing the highest reports.
| Region | Snowfall Totals |
|---|---|
| New York City | 1-3 inches |
| Long Island (esp. South Shore) | 1-3 inches |
| Northeastern New Jersey | 1-3 inches |
| Central New Jersey & Jersey Shore | 1-3 inches |
| Northern New Jersey & Lower Hudson Valley | Trace to 1 inch |
Central New Jersey drew particular attention for potentially heavier bands. Pennsylvania’s northern zones along the I-195 corridor and Pennsylvania Turnpike saw similar light accumulations of one to two inches, mixed with sleet in places.[1] Southern areas largely dodged snow in favor of rain.[2]
Hazardous Roads Challenge Morning Commute
Snow- and slush-covered roadways prompted warnings from transportation officials ahead of the Presidents’ Day rush. The New Jersey Department of Transportation highlighted central Jersey’s heavier snow as a key concern and advised drivers to exercise caution.[1] Untreated surfaces turned slick overnight, with temperatures dipping into the upper 20s and low 30s.
- Snow arrived around 9 p.m. Sunday, intensifying briefly before winding down by 9 a.m. Monday.
- Highs neared 40 degrees Monday, promoting a swift melt under clearing skies.
- Unlike recent major storms, this clipper system moved rapidly, limiting prolonged disruptions.
- Motorists faced brief but tricky conditions during peak hours.
Public transit largely held steady, though delays rippled through bridges and tunnels. No widespread school closures materialized, given the holiday observance.
Residents Voice Winter Fatigue
The latest flakes compounded exhaustion for those shoveling out from prior events. Danny Randazzo, a Long Island mail carrier, captured the sentiment on social media and in an interview: “I’ve had enough snow.” He added, “I’m tired of the snow. It’s taking a toll on us.”[1]
In Pennsylvania’s Poconos, Donna DeMarinis echoed the weariness after two feet from an earlier storm. Cleanup burdens weighed heavy, especially for families with young children facing bus runs. “It is what it is, but bring on the summer,” she remarked.[1] Social media buzzed with similar laments across the metro.
Key Takeaways
- Light snow of 1-3 inches fell without major power outages or flooding.
- Travel hazards peaked overnight but faded quickly with warming trends.
- Storm highlighted ongoing winter variability in the Northeast.
This brief snow episode underscored the Northeast’s persistent wintry grip, even as spring loomed. Milder air promises to erase traces soon, offering relief to snow-shoveling crews and commuters alike. What impacts did the snow have on your morning drive? Share in the comments.
