A massive winter storm system is currently barreling toward the Northeast. Consequently, Governor Kathy Hochul officially declared a State of Emergency for the entire state of New York on Friday afternoon. This storm coincides with a period of dangerous and record-breaking cold temperatures. Forecasters expect the heaviest snowfall to arrive early Sunday morning and continue through Monday. Residents in high-risk zones should prepare for paralyzing conditions and potential power outages. The following counties sit directly in the path of the heaviest snow bands.
New York County (Manhattan)
The five boroughs of New York City face a rare and significant snow event. Specifically, Manhattan is bracing for a total that could reach 18 inches. This amount of snow represents a major disruption for the country’s most densely populated area. City officials warn that travel will be nearly impossible once the storm reaches its peak intensity late Sunday. Furthermore, the extreme cold will make clearing the snow difficult. Road salt often loses its effectiveness when temperatures drop below 15 degrees.
Suffolk County
Long Island prepares for what meteorologists call the largest storm to hit the region in four years. Suffolk County sits in a zone where moisture from the Atlantic will fuel intense snowfall rates. Additionally, high winds may create massive snowdrifts across open areas and farm fields. These drifts often make local roads impassable even after plows have passed. Highway superintendents are already checking snow fences to mitigate the impact of windblown snow.
Albany County
The Capital Region is squarely in the path of the storm’s northern shift. Albany County residents should expect snowfall rates exceeding one inch per hour by Sunday night. National Weather Service officials have issued a Winter Storm Watch effective through Monday evening. Because this is a long-duration event, the Monday morning commute will likely face severe delays. Emergency shelters are opening their doors to accommodate those who may lose heating during the freeze.
Westchester County
Hudson Valley residents face a dangerous combination of heavy snow and sub-zero wind chills. Westchester County expects a widespread 12 to 18 inches of accumulation. The weight of the snow could put immense pressure on tree limbs and power lines. Therefore, utility companies are pre-positioning thousands of crews to handle expected outages. Residents should ensure their emergency kits include extra blankets and non-perishable food.
Broome County
The Southern Tier will be the first region to see flakes as the storm moves in after midnight Saturday. Broome County expects a steady ramp-up in intensity throughout Sunday morning. Meteorologists predict localized intense snow bands capable of dropping two inches of snow per hour. In addition to the snow, the region faces real-feel temperatures as low as negative 30 degrees. This creates a life-threatening situation for anyone stranded on the road.
Oneida County
The Mohawk Valley will likely see significant totals from both the main storm and lingering lake effect moisture. Oneida County is bracing for 12 to 18 inches of powdery snow that will pile up quickly. Although lake effect bands initially focused on the North Country, they will shift south as the primary system takes over. State stockpiles are currently deploying emergency response assets to help local crews maintain the main thoroughfares.
Safety is always the top priority, so make sure you are ready to face this storm today. Governor Hochul urges New Yorkers to avoid travel during the snow. There is a high danger that comes with being stranded in these cold temperatures. How are you preparing for the upcoming deep freeze and snow? Please share your safety tips or local conditions in the comments below to help your neighbors stay informed.
What to Read Next…
- Generator Season Can Turn Deadly: 7 Carbon Monoxide Mistakes People Make During Outages
- 8 Ways Long-Term Stress Changes How You React to Normal Situations
- Gut Health: 7 Signs Your Healthy Diet Is Actually Causing Inflammation
The post 6 New York Counties Expected to See Over 12 Inches of Snow This Sunday appeared first on Budget and the Bees.
