New York Gears Up For Intense Winter Storm after Christmas Bringing Snow, Sleet, and Travel Chaos That Could Disrupt Flights, Roads, and Commutes

Published on December 25, 2025

New York is bracing for major disruptions that could impact both domestic and foreign travelers as the city gets ready for a strong winter storm after Christmas. Heavy snowfall, sleet, and icy conditions are predicted to cover the area starting Friday afternoon, making travel hazardous. Both commuters and vacationers may experience significant delays on the roads and at airports due to the storm’s impact during rush hour. People may need to reconsider their travel plans due to the possibility of sleet and snow accumulation of up to eight inches in some places. Travelers must remain informed and prepared because this storm is expected to cause chaos in New York’s already congested transportation systems.

As New Yorkers prepare to head back to work or travel for the post-holiday weekend, they are bracing for the arrival of a fast-moving winter storm that is expected to hit the city and surrounding areas just after Christmas. The storm, which will bring heavy snowfall and slippery conditions, is set to disrupt commutes and pose potential travel risks across the region.

The storm will begin affecting New York City and the surrounding tri-state area by Friday afternoon, continuing into early Saturday morning. Although it arrives too late for a white Christmas, it will coincide with peak travel hours, making conditions hazardous for those attempting to travel during the busy weekend period.

Snowfall and Road Conditions

Snowfall totals vary throughout the city and neighboring areas. Parts of New York City could see between three and six inches of snow, while some surrounding areas, particularly along the Interstate 287 corridor between New Jersey and New York, may experience up to eight inches of snow. Forecasts indicate that Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn are likely to be on the lower end of this range, with the storm expected to impact travel starting around 3 p.m. on Friday and tapering off by 10 a.m. Saturday.

Travelers should prepare for challenging conditions, especially on the roads. As snow accumulates, it is expected to cause delays on both local streets and major highways. The potential for sleet to mix in with the snow, particularly south and west of the city, could further complicate travel plans. Slippery road conditions are anticipated, increasing the risk of accidents and making driving hazardous, especially for those traveling at night.

Travel Tips for New Yorkers

For those planning to navigate the city during this winter storm, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. First, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and road conditions, as the situation could change quickly. Travelers should expect delays, particularly for public transportation, as snow and sleet may affect bus and train schedules. For those driving, ensuring that vehicles are equipped with winter tires and emergency supplies is recommended. It’s also important to leave extra time for travel, as road conditions are likely to deteriorate, especially during the storm’s peak.

For those flying or traveling by train, checking with airlines and rail operators for updates on potential delays or cancellations is essential. Major transportation hubs like New York’s airports and Penn Station will likely see an increase in passenger traffic, and weather-related delays could cause significant disruptions.

Christmas Day Forecast and Aftermath

While Christmas Day itself is expected to remain snow-free, the cold weather will prevail. Morning temperatures will hover around the freezing mark, with breezy conditions expected to pick up by early afternoon. The day will remain dry, with a mix of sun and clouds throughout the day. However, by nightfall, temperatures will likely drop into the upper teens in the colder parts of the region, setting the stage for the impending storm.

The post-Christmas storm is a reminder that winter weather in New York City can change rapidly. Travelers should remain cautious and plan accordingly to ensure their journeys remain safe and efficient.

What Travelers Need to Know

With the storm expected to impact travel across New York and the surrounding areas, travelers should stay informed about changing conditions. It is advisable to monitor weather updates closely and adjust travel plans if necessary to avoid the worst of the storm. As snow begins to accumulate, conditions are expected to worsen, making travel increasingly dangerous through the evening hours.

The storm may be a short-lived event, but its effects on the region’s travel infrastructure could be significant. Those planning to travel after Christmas should take extra care when heading out on the roads or through busy transportation hubs, allowing ample time for delays and factoring in the impact of winter weather.

New York is preparing for a powerful winter storm after Christmas, bringing heavy snow and sleet that will likely disrupt flights, roads, and commutes, causing delays and hazardous travel conditions. The storm’s timing during peak travel hours amplifies the risk of chaos across the region.

As the holiday season continues, travelers in New York and surrounding areas must remain vigilant and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. By staying informed, adjusting travel schedules, and taking precautions on the roads, it’s possible to navigate the storm with minimal disruption. Stay safe, plan ahead, and ensure your journey is as smooth as possible despite the challenging winter conditions.