Meteorologists and New York City officials have two words for residents about this weekend’s impending winter storm: Be prepared.
While the forecast remains in flux, authorities are warning New Yorkers to brace for up to a foot of snow into Monday and a potentially record-breaking stretch of extreme cold through Wednesday.
Here’s what you need to know about the weather.
Current forecast
The storm could begin as soon as late Saturday and deliver “considerable disruption to transportation and daily life,” according to the National Weather Service.
The heaviest snow is predicted on Sunday, but it could affect Monday’s commute. NWS says there’s currently about a 90% chance of more than 6 inches falling in the area and about a 70% chance of around a foot falling.
If a foot of snow accumulates in Central Park, it would be the first time that’s happened since January 2021, when a storm dropped more than 17 inches in the park, according to the National Weather Service. It would also be the most snow to pile up in a single storm so far this winter, meteorologists say.
Temperatures on Saturday and Sunday are expected to be frigid, with Saturday’s highs only around 19 degrees. Sunday should be slightly warmer, with highs around 23 degrees, the forecast shows.
NYC officials urge precautions
The city’s emergency management agency is advising New Yorkers to plan ahead and make contingency arrangements for pets, children, family members and neighbors with health issues or disabilities who might need care.
Officials are also encouraging residents to contact 311 about any people who may be homeless and vulnerable to the freezing weather, so that outreach teams can connect them to shelter.
Residents with space heaters should keep them at least 3 feet from anything that can burn, according to city officials. FDNY guidelines say space heaters should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet, without extension cords or power strips, and should be turned off or unplugged when unattended.
The city’s Department of Buildings is asking property owners and construction companies to make sure their sites are adequately prepped for the weather to prevent slips and falls.
For those looking to help with snow removal efforts and make some extra cash, the city’s sanitation department is putting out a call for emergency snow shovelers.
