The first winter storm of the season could dump up to eight inches of snow for some outer reaches of the tri-state, though many likely won’t see much more than a few flakes before rain takes over for most of the day.
For any students in the New York City metro area hoping for a snow day (or at least a delay) on Tuesday, we’ve got bad news. Any flakes that do fly early in the morning will be overpowered by warming temperatures and rain through the day, making just for a wet and sloppy commute rather than a winter wonderland.
Most of the tri-state area won’t see more than a dusting, though some in northern New Jersey and areas north of Westchester and Rockland counties in New York, could see 1-3 inches.
The higher totals will be confined to the far north and west. Winter storm warnings are in effect for Sullivan County and part of Ulster County in New York, where 5-8 inches could fall; Orange, Dutchess and Putnam counties are under a winter weather advisory through Tuesday.
Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency for northwestern New Jersey ahead of the storm. Some schools have cancelled classes for Tuesday. See the updated list of closings and delays here.
The snow that falls in those northern areas will be wet and heavy, leading to dangerous road conditions. For others, the snow will turn to sleet and eventually to rain, leading to slushy roads in the morning. By the evening commute, it will be a wet drive.
In and around NYC, as well as anywhere along the coast, there will be a few flakes, but expect up to an inch of rain to fall. Ponding and minor flooding could be possible.
Airports will also see some impact as this storm will affect D.C. to Boston.
Everything should dry out by Wednesday, in time for the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Temperatures won’t warm up however. Around the time of the lighting, temperatures will likely be in the mid 30s.
Beyond Tuesday, look for the coldest air of the season to take over Friday. Low temperatures in the city will dip to around 20, with highs still expected to be below freezing in the afternoon.
