The first winter storm warning in two years was issued on Monday for New York City. NYC residents have experienced a mild winter, but a powerful nor’easter is expected to cause major snowfall on Tuesday. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration describes a nor’easter as a storm along the East Coast of North America, so called because the winds over the coastal area are typically from the northeast.
Public schools in New York City are holding class remotely due to the threat of low visibility, strong winds, and blustering snow. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has urged the public to work from home and only travel if necessary. The National Weather service reported that Central Park has already seen over an inch of snow before 8 a.m. “It’s how Mother Nature’s sending her love for Valentine’s Day, with the biggest snowstorm to hit New York City in three years. We’ve been preparing for this, and as you can see it’s starting to develop now,” Governor Hochul told 1010 WINS this morning. Hochul reassured residents that they are intent on keeping the trains and subways running as close to schedule as possible in the face of massive snowfall.
According to the Weather Prediction Center, it is possible that more than 2 inches of snow per hour could accumulate across the region and wind gusts could reach up to 40 mph. New Jersey and Pennsylvania have already seen over a foot of snow as of Tuesday morning. Travel is expected to be severely impacted. Over 1,000 flights have been cancelled across the country, most departing from or arriving to major airports in New York, Boston, and New Jersey, FlightAware says.
The NOAA advises those under the threat of a nor’easter to prepare a disaster supplies kit consisting of plenty of water, at least three days’ worth of food, and warm clothing. It is also advised to prepare an emergency communications plan with family members. It is imperative to stay off the roads in these harsh conditions and to take great precaution if you must travel.
