Winter Storm Warnings Hit New York, NJ, Possible Snow: What to Expect

Winter storm warnings have been issued for parts of the Hudson Valley and northern New Jersey ahead of a powerful system expected to drop up to a foot of snow in some places and hit others, including New York City, with heavy rain and sleet. Tuesday morning, when you walk out the door, I’ll be hitting trips across the region.

The usual winter storm cast (snow, rain, wind) should appear by Monday evening, although light snow or rain may fall earlier and remain on Tuesday for most of the day.

But as far as what and when, it all depends on the location.

Temperature is a hallmark of this system, especially for New York, Long Island, and neighboring suburbs. With highs expected in the mid-40s, the rainfall coming Monday night is likely to start with heavy rain in the city. It can be intense at times, so caution is advised in the afternoon. The rain continues until late at night and turns to snow for several hours at night when temperatures drop. However, any accumulation will be negligible.

This does not apply to the Hudson Valley and northern New Jersey, where heavy snowfall is expected. The further north you look, the more you will find by the end of Tuesday and the beginning of Wednesday. While a foot is possible in Sullivan, Dutchess, and Ulster counties, about 6 inches can still be seen in Westchester and Rockland, as well as Fairfield County in Connecticut. Check out the latest National Weather Service warnings here.

Regardless of the outcome, the Tuesday morning ride will be an unpleasant one. Cancellations and delays in schools can be a problem. Here you can find updates on them.

Timeline of the storm and expectations

NEW YORK AND LONG ISLAND

• Monday: periods of rain during the day
• Monday Night: Heavy rain and possible localized flooding.
• tuesday: rain mixes with snow and turns into snow; only minor accumulations

NORTHWEST NJ, CATSKILLS, LOWER HUDSON VALLEY AND CONNECTICUT

• Monday: Snow in Pike/Sullivan/North Orange counties early; may turn to rain at noon
• Monday night: Hours of heavy snowfall, perhaps half a foot visible by morning.
• Tuesday: Snow lasts most of the day, getting lighter by noon.

Winds will pick up as well, with gusts between 30 and 50 mph on Tuesday, possibly even stronger on Long Island. And until the storm subsides on Wednesday, gusty winds should continue.

For the remainder of the week, temperatures rise again, with St. Patrick’s Day weekend seeing a combination of sunshine, clouds and a few showers.

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Monitor any approaching precipitation using our interactive radar below.