Millions of commuters in the Northeastern United States, particularly in and around New York City, are preparing for a challenging Tuesday morning as a significant Nor'easter storm moves into the region. The system promises a messy mix of wintry precipitation, directly targeting the crucial morning rush hour.
Storm Timing and Immediate Impact
The storm is forecast to reach the New York metropolitan area around 6 AM on Tuesday, creating a hazardous overlap with peak travel times. Forecasters warn that a combination of snow flurries and rain will lead to slick and dangerous road conditions. FOX meteorologist Cody Braud indicated that New York City is likely to experience a prolonged period of precipitation, stating, "NYC is likely to get a continuous 12-16 hours of rain and or snow. Both the morning and evening commutes will face impacts."
Variable Impacts: City Rain vs. Suburban Snow
The effects of this Nor'easter will differ sharply between major urban centers and their surrounding suburbs. For New York City and other major hubs like Baltimore, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and Boston, significant snow accumulation is not expected. The initial wintry mix is predicted to change to all rain by approximately 9 AM. However, the rain will continue throughout the day, keeping roads wet and slippery for the evening commute as temperatures linger in the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit.
In contrast, suburban and outlying areas should brace for snow. Northern New Jersey, the Lower Hudson Valley, and Connecticut could see accumulations of up to three inches. Coastal Jersey is also preparing for one to three inches. The heaviest snowfall is anticipated farther north, in the corridor between Albany and Bangor, Maine, where totals could reach eight inches. Long Island is forecast to receive up to two inches of rain with little to no snow.
Wider Regional Effects and Clearance
The storm's reach extends beyond the immediate commute. Travelers, including those returning to the Northeast from Thanksgiving holidays in Florida, will face disruptions. As reported, in Massachusetts, plowable snow will stay west of Route 495 and north of the Massachusetts Turnpike. The colder air is expected to hold north of the I-287 corridor around New York, keeping the city in mostly rain. The mountain regions, including the Green Mountains, White Mountains, and Adirondacks, are in line for the most snow, with some spots potentially approaching a foot.
The entire weather system is expected to clear out of the metro area by Wednesday morning, offering respite after a full day of impactful weather. Residents are advised to plan for longer travel times, exercise caution on the roads, and stay updated with the latest local forecasts.
