Key Takeaways
- The winter storm in the Tri-State Area has mostly passed, with New York City receiving less snow than anticipated, but still the most in nearly four years.
- The storm delivered 4.3" of snow to Central Park, the first snowfall greater than 4" since January 28-29, 2022.
- Snow totals were lower than expected in New York City and New Jersey due to warmer air aloft, with totals ranging from 2-4" in northern areas and less in South Jersey.
- The biggest snowfall totals were north and east of New York City, specifically in Connecticut and parts of Long Island, with totals of 7-9".
- Temperatures will struggle to get above freezing, with lows in the teens and 20s tonight and highs in the upper 30s on Sunday.
Introduction to the Storm
The winter storm that affected the Tri-State Area has mostly passed, leaving behind a trail of snow and ice. New York City, which was expected to receive significant snowfall, ultimately received less than anticipated. However, the city still experienced its most significant snowfall in nearly four years, with 4.3" of snow recorded in Central Park. This marks the first time since January 28-29, 2022, that the city has seen a snowfall greater than 4".
Snowfall Totals in New York City and New Jersey
The snowfall totals in New York City and New Jersey were lower than expected due to warmer air aloft. This warmer air, which was present at altitudes of around 7,000-10,000 feet, caused melting as precipitation fell, resulting in lower snow totals. As a result, the totals in New Jersey were generally 2-4" for northern areas, with even less snowfall in South Jersey. The surface temperature was below freezing, but the layer of warmer air aloft had a significant impact on the snowfall totals.
Snowfall Totals in Surrounding Areas
In contrast to New York City and New Jersey, the areas north and east of the city, specifically Connecticut and parts of Long Island, experienced significant snowfall totals. The storm performed as expected in these areas, with totals ranging from 7-9". Some of the highest snow totals recorded were 9.1" in New Fairfield, Connecticut, and 7.5" in Babylon, New York. Additionally, parts of Westchester County, Orange County, and Putnam County in New York also received significant snowfall, with totals ranging from 5-7".
Weather Outlook
The storm has mostly passed, and the region can expect some lingering flurries and slick roads on Saturday morning. However, the temperatures will struggle to get above freezing, and clouds will give way to some breaks of sun before the day is over. Tonight will be colder, with lows in the teens and 20s, and any untreated surfaces will be extremely slick. As for Sunday, the daylight hours will be dry, but rain is expected to move in tomorrow evening. There may be some brief mixing north and west of New York City at the onset, but temperatures will slowly rise overnight as the weather transitions to rain. Highs on Sunday are expected to be in the upper 30s.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the winter storm that affected the Tri-State Area has mostly passed, leaving behind a trail of snow and ice. While New York City received less snow than anticipated, it still experienced its most significant snowfall in nearly four years. The surrounding areas, specifically Connecticut and parts of Long Island, experienced significant snowfall totals, with some areas receiving over 9" of snow. As the region looks ahead to the next few days, temperatures will struggle to get above freezing, and rain is expected to move in on Sunday evening. It is essential for residents to remain cautious and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety, especially on untreated surfaces.