Urgent Winter Storm Warning Issued For New York City and Tri-State area with Heavy Snow, Icy Hazards, and Dangerous Travel Conditions Expected This Weekend: Here’s What You Need To Know

Published on December 26, 2025

A strong storm is predicted to bring heavy snow, icy hazards, and extremely slick conditions this weekend, prompting the issuance of an urgent Winter Storm Warning for New York City and the Tri-State region. Up to 12 inches of snow are expected to accumulate between Friday night and Saturday morning, and freezing temperatures will make travel exceedingly dangerous. The storm is predicted to put commuters and locals at serious risk due to poor visibility and the possibility of travel disruptions. Here are some tips for staying safe and ready for this hazardous winter weather event.

A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for the New York City area and surrounding regions, as a powerful winter storm is expected to bring significant snow and hazardous conditions from Friday evening through Saturday morning. The storm, anticipated to be the most significant of the season so far, will impact not only the city but also parts of northern New Jersey, southern Connecticut, and the Hudson Valley. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for the storm and stay safe during this intense winter weather event.

What to Expect from the Winter Storm

The storm is expected to begin its journey through the Tri-State area on Friday afternoon, with snowfall moving into the New York City region by 5 or 6 p.m. The origins of this winter storm can be traced back to the potent systems hitting California earlier in the week, which are now moving eastward. The collision of these systems with Arctic air in the Midwest is expected to intensify the storm as it barrels toward the East Coast.

The heaviest snow and most dangerous conditions are expected to occur between 8 p.m. Friday and 1 a.m. Saturday. During this time, the storm could bring 1 to 2 inches of snow per hour along with low visibility, creating hazardous travel conditions. By the early hours of Saturday, the snowfall will start to taper off, but lighter snow could continue until midday. As the storm winds down, temperatures will remain cold, meaning minimal melting of the snow, further complicating travel on roads and sidewalks.

Areas Affected by the Storm

The following areas are expected to be significantly impacted by the winter storm:

• New York City
• Northern New Jersey
• Southern Connecticut
• Hudson Valley
• Catskills
• Poconos
• Western Long Island
• Eastern Long Island (light snow expected)
• Eastern Connecticut (light snow expected)

Certain areas, particularly the Catskills, Poconos, and parts of northern New Jersey, could see snow totals ranging from 8 to 12 inches. Meanwhile, areas to the south, including parts of New Jersey and eastern Long Island, are expected to experience a mix of sleet and snow, reducing snow accumulation to around 2 to 4 inches.

Snowfall Totals and Timing

According to the latest snowfall predictions, New York City can expect between 4 to 8 inches of snow by the end of the storm. The most significant snowfall is likely to occur in the evening, with the heaviest bands of snow making travel difficult, especially during the peak of the storm. While snow will likely continue through the morning hours on Saturday, the accumulation will be minimal after the initial burst, as temperatures remain below freezing.

Sleet and rain are also expected to mix with the snow later in the morning, particularly in southern areas like New Jersey and parts of Long Island. This mix could result in reduced snow totals but still pose risks for icy conditions on roadways.

Precautions to Take

Travelers in the affected areas should take immediate precautions to ensure their safety during the storm. Here are some important tips for preparing for and navigating the winter storm:

• Avoid unnecessary travel: Snowfall will begin to accumulate rapidly, and visibility will decrease. Travel could become dangerous, especially during the peak of the storm.
• Prepare for slippery conditions: Roads and sidewalks will become slick and treacherous. Be cautious when walking or driving in snowy and icy conditions.
• Stock up on essentials: Ensure you have the necessary supplies, including food, water, and medications, in case the storm causes power outages or other disruptions.
• Winterize your home: Make sure your heating system is functioning properly, and keep extra blankets, warm clothing, and flashlights on hand in case of emergencies.
• Keep an eye on weather updates: Stay informed of the latest forecasts and advisories from local authorities, as the storm could evolve rapidly and change its impact on different areas.

What’s Next After the Storm?

While the storm will begin to dissipate by Saturday afternoon, the cold temperatures will remain. Snowfall could turn into a slushy mix by the morning hours, but little melting is expected, leaving icy conditions on roads. As temperatures rise into the 40s on Sunday, the thaw will be brief, followed by another Arctic blast that will bring even colder conditions in the final days of December.

Despite the temporary respite, the storm will leave behind difficult travel conditions, so residents should remain cautious even as the snow begins to wind down.

This winter storm will bring significant challenges for travelers and residents in the Tri-State area, with major disruptions expected Friday evening through Saturday morning. Snowfall, sleet, and icy conditions will affect much of New York City, northern New Jersey, and southern Connecticut, making travel hazardous. The snow will taper off by Saturday, but cold temperatures and icy roads will persist, so it is important to remain cautious.

An urgent Winter Storm Warning has been issued for New York City and the Tri-State area as heavy snow and icy hazards are expected from Friday through Saturday, creating dangerously slippery roads and hazardous travel conditions. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe during this severe weather event.

Stay safe by preparing in advance, staying informed, and avoiding unnecessary travel during the peak of the storm. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your safety during one of the season’s most significant winter storms.