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NEW YORK (WABC) — The Tri-State area has finally begun recovering from the
largest snowstorm to hit in nearly four years. As of Saturday, snow totals were
tapering off, leaving behind slick, icy streets and sidewalks across New York City,
New Jersey, Connecticut, and parts of Long Island. While the snowfall is now a
memory, the hazardous aftermath poses serious challenges for motorists and
pedestrians alike.
Record Snowfall Across the Tri-State Area
Central Park in Manhattan recorded 4.3 inches of snow, marking the highest
snowfall there since January 28-29, 2022, when over eight inches fell. However,
some areas of Connecticut, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley experienced even
heavier totals.
In Connecticut, New Fairfield saw 9.1 inches, Fairfield 7 inches, Bridgeport 7.1 inches,
and Newtown 6 inches. On Long Island, Babylon and Orient each recorded 7.5
inches, Mattituck 7 inches, North Patchogue 6.8 inches, Islip 6.6 inches, and
Hampton Bays 6.5 inches. Meanwhile, the Hudson Valley recorded substantial
totals, including Lake Carmel 6.5 inches, Armonk 6.4 inches, Peekskill 6.1 inches,
and Port Chester 5.9 inches.
In contrast, sleet and freezing rain reduced totals in New Jersey and parts of New
York City. Fordham in the Bronx received 4.3 inches, while LaGuardia and JFK
airports both measured 4.1 inches. New Jersey saw Harrison at 4 inches, Springfield
3 inches, and Newark 2.5 inches.
Meteorologists described the storm as an “Alberta Clipper on steroids,” fueled by
moisture from Pacific storms that collided with the cold winter air over the region.
This combination resulted in rapid, heavy snowfall over certain localized areas,
particularly in the Hudson Valley and parts of Long Island.
Dangerous Conditions Persist as Temperatures Plunge
Although the storm itself has passed, temperatures are expected to remain below
freezing through early Sunday, raising the risk of black ice, slippery sidewalks, and
treacherous road conditions. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued special
warnings for motorists and pedestrians:
“Motorists and pedestrians should use caution. Reduce speed, allow extra time, and
be prepared for areas of slippery travel Saturday evening through midday
Sunday.”
Ice accumulation is particularly concerning because any remaining snow, slush,
and puddles are likely to freeze overnight, creating hazardous travel conditions
across the entire Tri-State area.
Sunday will bring a frigid day, followed by clouds rolling in later in the afternoon.
While daylight hours may remain dry, freezing rain is expected Sunday evening,
particularly in northern and western areas, potentially creating another round of
travel disruptions. Temperatures will briefly warm on Monday, only to plunge again
for the remainder of the week.
Westchester County and Heavy Snow Totals
Westchester County recorded some of the heaviest snowfall in the region.
Continuous snow coverage reduced visibility and made commuting challenging.
Residents are urged to remain cautious, as untreated streets and sidewalks remain
icy.
Local reporters covered the storm’s aftermath, highlighting the tireless work of
sanitation crews and emergency teams. Chantee Lans reported from Yonkers,
providing insight into the magnitude of the cleanup operation.
NYC Sanitation Workers Battle the Snow
In New York City, 2,700 sanitation workers have been deployed to plow streets,
spread salt, and maintain trash collection. These crews work 12-hour shifts to
ensure the city remains navigable despite hazardous conditions. Javier Lojan,
Acting Commissioner of the NYC Department of Sanitation, emphasized:
“Even though the streets have been salted and plowed, they’re still very slick and
icy… just be careful out there.”
Approximately 700 salt spreaders continue to operate throughout the day. While
sanitation crews handle streets and bike lanes, property owners are responsible for
clearing sidewalks bordering their properties, a measure critical to reducing
pedestrian injuries and slip-and-fall accidents.
The PlowNYC tool allows residents to monitor the plowing status of city blocks in
real time, ensuring they can plan safe routes during snow removal operations.
Airports and Travel Disruptions
The winter storm caused widespread travel disruptions across the Northeast and
Great Lakes. Over 1,500 flights were canceled from Friday night into early Saturday,
affecting major hubs including Newark Liberty International, JFK, and LaGuardia
airports. Social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) were flooded with
updates about flight delays and safety warnings.
Despite these cancellations, by Saturday morning, the skies began clearing, and
road conditions slowly improved. Maryland-based NWS forecaster Bob Oravec
confirmed:
“The storm is definitely winding down, a little bit of flurries across the Northeast
this morning.”
However, motorists are advised to remain vigilant, particularly in areas north and
west of New York City, where lingering ice patches and snow-covered roads can
create hazardous conditions.
Residents React to the Snowstorm
New Yorkers and visitors experienced the winter storm differently. In Times Square,
workers clad in red jumpsuits cleared sidewalks and streets with shovels and
snowblowers, removing thick layers of snow and slush. Jennifer Yokley, visiting
from North Carolina, described the scene:
“I think it was absolutely beautiful,” she said, admiring the snow-dusted cityscape.
Visitors Payton Baker and Kolby Gray from West Virginia were surprised by the
snowy conditions during their third anniversary trip:
“Well, it’s very cold, and it was very unexpected,” Baker said. “The city is working
pretty well to get all the roads salted and everything, so it’s all right.”
State of Emergency Declarations
Ahead of the storm, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of
emergency for over half of the state. Acting New Jersey Governor Tahesha Way
issued a similar declaration. Authorities warned that the storm would create
dangerous road conditions and urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel. Both
governors emphasized the importance of allowing emergency crews to operate
safely and clear roads efficiently.
What’s Next for the Tri-State Area?
Looking ahead, meteorologists expect the region to experience brief dry periods,
followed by additional cold and icy conditions later in the week. Residents are
advised to remain cautious, monitor local weather updates, and use safety
protocols when traveling outdoors.
Mayor Eric Adams and city officials reiterated the importance of patience and
safety. While NYC streets have been plowed and treated, residual ice and snow
continue to pose risks. Residents are urged to:
Drive slowly and allow extra time for travel
Avoid unnecessary trips during peak icy conditions
Use PlowNYC to monitor street clearance
Follow local advisories and emergency alerts
The recent snowstorm has left a lasting impression on the Tri-State area,
highlighting the challenges posed by winter weather in urban environments. From
record snow totals in Central Park to hazardous black ice on roads and sidewalks,
residents face several days of caution and careful planning. With sanitation crews,
emergency services, and state authorities working around the clock, New Yorkers
are beginning to dig out—but the risks associated with icy roads and freezing
temperatures remain high.
As the region recovers, the public is reminded to prioritize safety, stay informed via
local weather services, and be prepared for fluctuating winter conditions in the
coming week. The storm may have passed, but its icy legacy will linger well into
the weekend.
