STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a hazardous travel advisory for Sunday and Monday ahead of what could be the largest snowstorm to hit the city in years.
Due to snow, ice and reduced visibility, road conditions may be poor and city officials are encouraging residents to avoid non-essential travel. Those planning to commute on Monday morning will want to plan accordingly.
In addition to the hazardous travel advisory, the city is also under a Winter Storm Warning that will remain in effect from 3 a.m. Sunday through 6 p.m. Monday.
The warning is issued when at least 6 inches of snow is expected within the span of 12 hours or at least 8 inches is forecast within 24 hours.
The main impact of this storm is expected throughout the day Sunday and the city could receive between 8 and 14 inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service forecast.
“We’re facing a major winter storm that could bring some of the heaviest snowfall New York City has seen in years, along with frigid temperatures and high winds,” said Mayor Zohran Mamdani. “City agencies are fully mobilized — our streets are being treated, our plow fleet is prepared, and outreach teams are working around the clock to ensure New Yorkers can stay safe and homeless New Yorkers can access shelter. I’m deeply grateful to the public servants who are putting in long, cold hours under tough conditions to help our city weather this severe winter weather. I urge everyone across the five boroughs to prepare ahead of the storm, stay off the roads once it begins, and follow updates through Notify NYC.”
In addition to the Winter Storm Warning, the weather service has also issued a Cold Weather Advisory from 10 p.m. Friday through 10 a.m. Saturday.
An Arctic air mass will move into the area late Friday bringing freezing conditions that will linger through Wednesday.
Given anticipated conditions, the New York City Emergency Management Department said the Department of Social Services will issue Cold Blue weather alerts in an effort to support those experiencing homelessness. The alert is activated when freezing conditions are expected between 4 p.m. and 8 a.m.
“We are expecting a very significant winter storm on Sunday with heavy snow and poor visibility. The storm will cause messy road conditions, and will likely impact the Monday morning commute,” said Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “We are working very closely with our local, state and private partners to coordinate a response and minimize impacts to essential services. We urge all New Yorkers to exercise caution. If you must travel, consider using public transportation and allow for extra travel time. None of this preparedness and coordination happens without the passion and commitment of all the amazing city employees who are working behind the scenes to prepare the city and keep all New Yorkers safe.”