A shovel-worthy winter storm is set to move into New York City Friday evening, making for a messy and potentially hazardous start to the weekend.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for New York City and much of the surrounding region from Friday afternoon through early Saturday afternoon.
Forecasters say the storm could deliver 5 to 9 inches of snow in the city, with some spots possibly topping 10 inches.
What You Need To Know
As much as 5 to 9 inches of snow is expected to fall on New York City between Friday night and Saturday morning
This could be New York City’s biggest snowfall since January 2022
Snow will be heaviest Friday evening, with reduced visibility and slick roads
Icy streets and sidewalks may linger into next week
Snow is expected to begin Friday evening, around 6 p.m., and intensify quickly, with the most impactful conditions occurring between about 5 p.m. and 11 p.m., according to the NWS. During that time, snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour.
NY1 meteorologists said the snow accumulation would be the worst to hit New York City since January 2022.
Temperatures are expected to stay in the mid- to upper 20s, allowing snow to pile up quickly. The snow should start out dry and powdery before turning wetter overnight into Saturday morning.
New York City Emergency Management is urging residents to prepare ahead of the storm, warning conditions will deteriorate in the evening hours Friday. The agency reminded residents to check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, use space heaters safely and avoid using stoves or ovens to heat their homes. Anyone needing assistance staying warm can call 311.
❄️It’s true – it’s going to start snowing tomorrow and we want you to be prepared!
Flurries will start tomorrow afternoon before intensifying in the evening. Total snow amount predicted is 4-8”. We will continue to provide updates as they come. Check out the below tips to keep… https://t.co/kucVfSawGY
— NYC Emergency Management (@nycemergencymgt) December 25, 2025
Gov. Kathy Hochul also urged caution, particularly for those planning to travel during the holiday weekend.
“New York is no stranger to snow and cold weather, and given the Christmas holidays, it’s important to be extra prepared before getting on the road,” Hochul said in a statement, encouraging drivers to monitor forecasts, allow extra travel time and carry safety essentials.
The MTA said crews will be ready to salt platforms, clear stairs and keep signals, switches and the third rail operating. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said it is also monitoring conditions across airports, bridges, tunnels and PATH stations, and will issue travel alerts as needed.
NY1 chief meteorologist John Davitt said snow should taper off near midday Saturday, with temperatures in the low 30s. Rain is expected to develop late Sunday, with highs near 40 degrees, while icy streets and sidewalks could linger into next week.