The snow is falling across the five boroughs as the much-anticipated winter storm has arrived in New York.
The National Weather Service declared a winter storm warning for the five boroughs until 1 p.m. Monday with the NWS predicting between 6 and 12 inches of the white stuff to fall when all is said and done. The predicted snowfall totals were reduced overnight, as it’s believed a period of a wintry mix scheduled to develop on Sunday evening will tamp down accumulations.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged New Yorkers to avoid travel on Sunday, as road conditions are expected to be treacherous with anticipated periods of heavy snowfall, followed by a wintry mix of sleet, snow and rain in the evening.
Here’s what you need to know about the extreme winter weather heading our way:
How intense will this storm be?
The NWS predicts final snowstorm totals to range between 6 and 12 inches. The expected changeover to a wintry mix will add an additional layer of sleet and ice to whatever snow falls today. If the wintry mix does not develop or happens over a shorter period, the city will experience more snow and additional accumulations.
Before the expected changeover, however, New York City will experience prolonged periods of heavy snowfall of between 1 and 2 inches per hour, with whiteout conditions at times. Travel will be extremely dangerous during the storm; do not go out unless you absolutely must. Disruptions to public transit service are expected to last through Monday.
How has the city prepared?
The city is working closely with the National Weather Service to prepare for the extreme weather. The Department of Sanitation brined major streets with a salt mixture to reduce snow and ice accumulations when the snow arrives. The city has also mobilized its fleet of plows and salt spreaders to go to work keeping all streets clear during the storm.
When two inches of snow have fallen, the city’s fleet of 2,000 plows will hit the streets. You can track their progress on PlowNYC.
New York City’s Emergency Management System recommends that, in the event of extreme cold, New Yorkers winterize their homes and cars before the cold arrives by insulating walls and attics, ensuring they have sufficient heating fuel and safe emergency heating equipment available. New Yorkers should also make sure all necessary devices are charged in the event of an outage, turn refrigerators to a colder setting and let faucets drip to prevent freezing.
For a full list of winterizing tips, visit nyc.gov/site/em/ready/winter-weather-prep.
Where can I stay updated?
You can stay connected through the city’s Emergency Management System by calling or texting 311 or following the agency on social media.
We’re continuing to monitor the increasing potential for a winter storm Sunday into Monday. Specific details on exact timing and amounts will become clearer over the next few days. pic.twitter.com/oai8cCQbGL
— NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) January 21, 2026
