STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Meteorologists are predicting a potential major snowstorm for New York later this week. This weather event could bring the biggest snowfall of the winter to millions, with forecasts indicating significant impacts starting Thursday.
- Major snowstorm expected later this week
- Potential for biggest snowfall of winter
- Storm requires phasing of two systems
- New York City faces 20-60% snow chance
- Cold, dry air may suppress storm's impact
- Forecast to monitor for Thursday arrival
The upcoming snowstorm is expected to develop as a combination of two key weather systems. One system will move in from the Midwest while another approaches from the Northwest into the southern Plains early next week. When these systems phase together, they can create powerful storms that often affect the Northeast similarly to nor’easters.
According to AccuWeather’s Chief Meteorologist Jonathon Porter, if these conditions align properly, New York could see significant snowfall amounts. Currently, most of New York State has up to a 20% chance of receiving six inches or more of snow from this storm. Areas in parts of Hudson Valley and all of New Jersey have a higher probability ranging from 20-40%.
- The storm is predicted to arrive on February 19 or 20.
- New York City lies near areas with both 20-40% and 40-60% chances for heavy snowfall.
- Conditions may vary based on how far north the storm travels.
Bob Larson, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather, suggests that cold air could suppress the storm’s northern movement, similar to previous storms this winter that impacted areas south of New York more significantly than New York itself. However, there are indications that this storm may push further north than earlier systems.
This developing situation highlights the need for residents in affected areas to monitor updates closely as meteorologists refine their predictions leading up to midweek.
