A significant winter storm hit New York City on Sunday, bringing a level of snowfall not seen in years. More winter weather may be anticipated in the near future.
By 1 a.m. Monday, Washington Heights recorded the highest accumulation from Winter Storm Fern, with nearly 14.9 inches. This information comes from the National Weather Service.
The storm forced schools into virtual learning and caused public transportation delays. Meanwhile, New Yorkers engaged in unique snow day activities—think giant snowball fights and cross-country skiing right in Times Square. Notably, it broke the daily snow record for January 25, with 11.4 inches reported in Central Park. This marks the first time since February 2021 that snowfall exceeded a foot in the city.
Other boroughs saw impressive totals as well: Huguenot on Staten Island had 14 inches, Fordham in the Bronx received 13.5 inches, while Williamsburg in Brooklyn recorded 12 inches. Whitestone in Queens tallied 11.1 inches.
Outside the city, some towns experienced even more snowfall, with Tenafly in Bergen County, New Jersey, measuring over 16 inches.
Center Island in Nassau County on Long Island received about 15.3 inches, while Somers in Westchester County reported an astonishing 17 inches.
Snowfall in the city is expected to wrap up by 1 p.m. on Monday, but the National Weather Service warns that frigid temperatures will continue into the following week.
The storm’s impact stretches beyond snowfall. Communities from the Southern Plains to the Northeast are bracing for bitter cold, which could complicate cleanup, disrupt infrastructure, and result in hazardous travel for several days.
As a result, around 1,300 flights at New York City airports faced cancellations, and the MTA noted that some subway lines were experiencing significant delays.
Both the Long Island Rail Road and New Jersey’s Department of Transportation adjusted their schedules to reflect weekend operations.
Looking ahead, AccuWeather indicates that another storm might reach the city next Sunday, presenting at least a chance of snow.
Meanwhile, officials have cautioned that a prolonged stretch of arctic air might lead to dangerously icy conditions on roads and sidewalks. “Although the snowfall has ended, roads and sidewalks will remain icy and slippery, with occasional light snow and blizzard conditions possible,” the city’s emergency alerts warned on Monday. “Please exercise caution if you travel.”
