Bundle up, New York. It’s getting really cold this weekend.
Photo by Dean Moses
Bundle up, New York City — we are about to take an arctic plunge into extreme cold coupled with a big snowstorm.
The National Weather Service announced that very cold weather, which will drop the mercury into the teens, is due to arrive Friday night. With some hard cold already in the area, the Big Apple could see a big snowmaker on Sunday into Monday.
Here’s what you need to know about the extreme winter weather heading our way:
When are the temperatures dropping, and how low will they go?
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures will start to drop on Friday, Jan. 23, with temperatures dropping as low as 12° that night. Saturday, Jan. 24, is predicted to have a high of just 18°, and Sunday, Jan. 25, will have a high of 20°. Temperatures will start to rise again on Monday, Jan. 26, but still not come close to breaking the freezing point, reaching a high of only 25°.
When will the storm start?
At this time, it is predicted that the winter storm will begin early in the morning on Sunday, Jan. 25, and will continue slightly into Monday, Jan. 26.
Will there be snow?
Chances are, we certainly will. At this time, it’s not immediately clear how many inches of the white stuff we’re set to get, but right now the National Weather Service is predicting a 70% chance of precipitation on Sunday, with potential for heavy snowfall.
Forecasters say it all depends on the track of a low-pressure system set to develop over the southeast United States. Should the center of the system track farther south, New York will see less snow; if the center moves farther north, the city could get at least a half-foot of snow, and possibly more.
How is the city preparing for the cold snap?
The city is working closely with the National Weather Service to prepare for the extreme weather. The Department of Sanitation will spearhead any necessary snow removal during the cold snap.
New York City’s Emergency Management System recommends that, in the event of extreme cold, New Yorkers winterize their homes and cars before the cold arrives by insulating walls and attics, ensuring they have sufficient heating fuel and safe emergency heating equipment available. New Yorkers should also make sure all necessary devices are charged in the event of an outage, turn refrigerators to a colder setting and let faucets drip to prevent freezing.
For a full list of winterizing tips, visit nyc.gov/site/em/ready/winter-weather-prep.
Where can I stay updated?
You can stay connected through the city’s Emergency Management System by calling or texting 311 or following the agency on social media.
We’re continuing to monitor the increasing potential for a winter storm Sunday into Monday. Specific details on exact timing and amounts will become clearer over the next few days. pic.twitter.com/oai8cCQbGL
— NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) January 21, 2026