Nor’easter to impact NYC with snow, 40-plus mph wind gusts: Here’s what to expect this weekend

by Rachel Morgan News Editor

New York City is bracing for a nor’easter this weekend, just one week after Winter Storm Fern significantly impacted the region.

Weekend Weather Outlook

The five boroughs are forecast to receive between 1 and 3 inches of snow, accompanied by wind gusts potentially reaching 45 mph. Snow is expected to begin early Sunday morning, continuing through the evening and ending around 8 p.m., according to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Tyler Roys.

Did You Know? Winter Storm Fern brought over a foot of snow to Staten Island.

Snowfall amounts will vary across the region. Roys noted that areas further west are likely to see less accumulation, while Long Island could potentially receive over 6 inches. Staten Island and northern New Jersey are areas where snowfall predictions are particularly sensitive to shifts in the storm’s track.

Storm Track and Potential Impacts

Initial reports indicated the storm could follow one of two paths: towards Bermuda, resulting in minimal impact, or towards Cape Cod, bringing more substantial snowfall. Current forecasts, as of Wednesday morning, suggest a path between these two scenarios. A “kicker low” from the Midwest is influencing the storm’s trajectory, pushing it away from the city, but not enough to eliminate its effects.

Expert Insight: The forecast highlights the inherent uncertainty in predicting winter storms. Even small shifts in the storm’s path can significantly alter snowfall totals, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and preparedness.

Unlike Winter Storm Fern, this nor’easter is not expected to bring mixed precipitation. However, coastal areas should prepare for potential flooding due to the combination of snow, high winds, and the coinciding full moon and astronomical high tide.

Looking Ahead

The nor’easter arrives during an ongoing cold snap. Saturday’s high temperature is expected to remain in the teens, with a low around 11 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunday will see temperatures in the lower 20s, with a gradual warming trend on Monday, reaching the upper 20s, according to Roys.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the snow start?

Snow is expected to begin arriving sometime early Sunday morning.

What are the expected wind gusts?

Wind gusts could reach up to 45 mph.

Will this storm be as severe as Winter Storm Fern?

Unlike Winter Storm Fern, which brought over a foot of snow to Staten Island, this nor’easter will not bring a mix of precipitation to the five boroughs.

Given the potential for varying snowfall amounts and coastal flooding, how will you prepare for the weekend’s weather conditions?

You may also like

Leave a Comment