This weekend, a powerful nor’easter is set to hit the Northeast, prompting travel bans and emergency measures across New York and New Jersey. As snow continues to fall, conditions are expected to worsen dramatically, raising concerns about safety and accessibility.
Connecticut’s Governor Ned Lamont has declared a state of emergency and announced a travel ban on major highways beginning at 5 PM. This ban applies to commercial vehicles but permits emergency services. Lamont urged residents to heed warnings, highlighting that the storm would bring intense winds and whiteout conditions, which could make driving dangerous.
In Newark, public schools will close on Monday due to the storm. Superintendent Roger León made this announcement as safety takes priority during blizzard conditions.
The National Weather Service noted that thundersnow—a rare event during winter storms—could occur. This phenomenon can obscure thunder sounds due to heavy snowfall, making them harder to hear. Significant snowfall rates, potentially reaching 4 inches per hour, are expected in coastal areas.
New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized that despite light snow and rain earlier in the day, a rapid shift to heavy, wet snowfall is imminent. This transition could lead to downed power lines and blackouts. She informed residents that Long Island and New York City will bear the brunt of the storm’s impact, with forecasts predicting up to 2 feet of snow in some locations.
The Long Island Rail Road will suspend service starting at 1 AM on Monday, with Metro-North also operating on a modified schedule. Transportation across NYC will face significant delays, including buses and subways, due to travel restrictions and weather conditions. NJ Transit announced suspensions for their services to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
The storm ranks among the potentially most significant snow events in NYC history. According to recent assessments, this storm may enter the top ten snowstorms recorded, with historical storms like those in 2016 and 2006 as benchmarks.
Flight disruptions are significant as well, with over 1,600 cancellations reported across major New York City area airports. Travelers are urged to check with airlines for updates.
Heavy and wet snow raises concerns about power outages, especially with winds gusting over 60 mph. Utility services like PSE&G have called in extra staff to manage potential outages, but harsh conditions could slow response times. Experts suggest preparing for power loss by bundling up and sealing off unneeded spaces to conserve heat.
On social media, users are sharing their experiences, posting videos of the storm’s onset and warnings from local agencies. Transit updates have sparked discussions about preparedness and community safety.
As this storm unfolds, New Yorkers and New Jerseyans are reminded to stay informed and prioritize safety. With a historical storm on the horizon, residents are expected to remain vigilant as conditions evolve.
