New York Braces for Heavy Snow Followed by Sleet
The United States is bracing for a significant winter storm, with New York City set to face heavy snow followed by sleet. This weather event is expected to disrupt transportation and daily life starting Sunday and continuing through Monday.
Storm Forecast for New York City
Meteorologists have adjusted their predictions as details about the storm surface. Snow is anticipated to begin early Sunday, accumulating several inches by late morning. Following the snow, sleet will likely take over in the afternoon, primarily affecting coastal areas.
Key Details of the Winter Storm
- Event Duration: Sunday morning through Monday evening
- Weather Conditions: Heavy snow transitioning to sleet
- Temperature: Low of 9°F recorded on Saturday
- Accumulation: Central Park predicted to receive around 12 inches of snow
- Coastal Impacts: Sleet and snow accumulation of 8 to 12 inches expected
- Wind Speeds: Up to 40 mph in coastal areas
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, effective from 3 a.m. Sunday to 6 p.m. Monday. Stronger winds may create near white-out conditions, particularly along the coast.
Temperature and Sleet Transition
As Arctic air from Canada moves into the region, temperatures are expected to remain cold throughout the storm. Forecasters predict overnight lows will drop into the teens, with Sunday’s highs unlikely to exceed the high 20s.
According to meteorologist Bryan Ramsey, the transition from snow to sleet will occur as warm air enters the upper levels of the storm system. The sleet phenomenon creates icy conditions that can lead to hazardous travel. The sound of sleet has been likened to “chicken feed hitting a metal pan,” indicating the transition will be noticeable.
Later Forecast and Conditions
As the storm continues into late Sunday, light snow may return, providing further accumulation into Monday. While the forecast for snowfall has been adjusted downward for coastal areas, regions farther from the shore could still record higher totals, possibly reaching 12 to 16 inches.
Conditions will begin to improve by Tuesday, though temperatures will remain below freezing throughout the week. This cold snap means accumulated snow will likely remain on the ground for an extended period.
Residents should prepare for challenging weather and travel conditions during this winter storm, as New York braces for a combination of heavy snow and sleet.
