The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a winter weather alert for Monday, January 6, as light snow is expected to affect the morning and evening commutes. According to the National Weather Service, snowfall will begin in the morning, with total accumulations of less than 1 inch. In a worst-case scenario, snowfall could reach up to 2 inches. Cold weather will persist throughout the week, with temperatures expected to be 5 to 10 degrees below normal and daily wind chills dipping into the teens.
“We urge New Yorkers to prepare for a challenging morning commute on Monday,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “The snow will create slippery road conditions that will impact both drivers and pedestrians. We encourage everyone to use mass transit, allow for extra travel time, monitor the forecast, and exercise caution.”
In preparation for the storm, the Department of Sanitation has deployed more than 700 salt spreaders and has begun pretreating roadways and bike lanes with liquid brine. Staff and equipment are also on standby to deploy plows if snow accumulation exceeds 2 inches.
The Department of Social Services has issued a Code Blue Weather Alert for unhoused individuals, ensuring resources like shelters, drop-in centers, and safe havens are available. Outreach teams will be contacting vulnerable individuals regularly to ensure their safety during the extreme cold and encourage them to accept transportation to shelter placements.
New Yorkers are urged to take precautions during the snow and cold weather. Those traveling should allow extra time for their commute and use public transportation whenever possible. Drivers are advised to slow down and use main roads, as vehicles take longer to stop on snow and ice. Pedestrians should be cautious of slippery surfaces, wear sturdy boots for traction, and use handrails on stairs to prevent slips and falls.
With colder temperatures expected, it is essential to dress appropriately in layers, including hats, gloves, and scarves. Exposed skin, especially fingertips, earlobes, and noses, should be covered to prevent frostbite. Wet clothing should be removed promptly to avoid hypothermia.
Alternate side parking rules will be suspended on Monday for the Three Kings holiday.