NYC Emergency Management Department issues a Travel Advisory

The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a Travel Advisory for Monday night, February 12 into Tuesday, February 13. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect citywide from 4:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday. The latest National Weather Service forecast calls for the possibility of 5 to 8 inches of snow at rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. This may result in difficult travel alongside low visibility, especially for the morning commute tomorrow. New Yorkers are urged to remain off the roads to allow crews to operate and respond to weather conditions.  

Precipitation is expected to start off as rain around midnight tonight. Snow begins to mix in around 3:00 to 4:00 a.m. and transitions to all snow around 7:00 to 8:00 a.m. Snowfall will be heaviest toward daybreak and steadily continue through the morning, ending in the early afternoon. The precise storm track and location of heaviest snow banding remains uncertain. Snowfall totals may change leading up to and during the event.   

Gusty northeast winds of 30 to 40 mph are also expected tomorrow morning into the afternoon, reducing visibility due to blowing snow. Widespread minor coastal flooding is also possible during high tides tomorrow morning. Tides are expected to peak around 11:00 a.m. in the NY Harbor and Jamaica Bay, and around 2:00 p.m. in the Long Island Sound. 

“With several inches of snow, poor visibility on the roads, and possible coastal flooding heading our way, New Yorkers should prepare in advance of tomorrow’s storm and take the necessary precautions to remain safe,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “All relevant city agencies have been activated and are prepared to handle whatever comes our way, but we’re asking New Yorkers to do their part, too. If you do not have to be on the roads tomorrow, please stay home, and, if you’re a property owner, remember to clear your sidewalks. As a reminder, New Yorkers should sign up for Notify NYC to keep up to date on winter weather.” 

“NYC Emergency Management has issued a Travel Advisory due to a significant winter storm forecasted to impact the region,” said New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “We have mobilized a comprehensive response with our city agencies and utility partners, but while we are preparing for any eventuality, I urge New Yorkers to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary for their safety and to allow our Sanitation Department (DSNY) crews and first responders to navigate the storm and reach those in need more quickly. Please stay informed through Notify NYC to navigate potential travel disruptions and to be able to get around safely. As always, let’s not forget to check on our family and neighbors who might need extra support at this time.”

NYCEM urges all New Yorkers to prioritize their safety by remaining alert and well-informed, including with real-time updates by subscribing to Notify NYC and listening to news broadcasts for the latest weather information. NYCEM strongly encourages all New Yorkers to take proactive steps to ensure their own safety and support the city’s resilience:

• NYCEM offers New Yorkers tips on staying safe before, during, and after winter storms at on.nyc.gov/winterweather.
• Stay informed. Before and during an emergency, the city will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels, including Notify NYC. Sign up for emergency notifications online or call 311. You can also follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter.
• Allow for extra travel time and expect delays with little to no notice. Use public transportation whenever possible.
• If you have to go outdoors, wear dry, warm clothing and cover exposed skin. Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered. Wear a hat, hood, scarf, and gloves.
• Shivering is an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Shivering is a signal to return indoors. Pedestrians should exercise caution and avoid slippery surfaces; some ice may not be visible. Wear sturdy boots that provide traction to reduce slipping. Use handrails when using stairs. Older New Yorkers and those with disabilities, access, and functional needs should take extra care outdoors to avoid slips and falls.
• Be safe at work. Workers who spend a lot of time outdoors are at risk for cold-related health impacts. If you are an employer, implement safe work practices, provide appropriate protective equipment, and train workers on how to stay safe during cold and winter weather.
• If you must drive, drive slowly. Vehicles take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible. Have heightened awareness of cars, particularly when approaching or crossing intersections.
• Always have an emergency kit in your car. It should include items like blankets, a flashlight, water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a snow shovel.
• Check on friends, relatives, and neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities, access and functional needs, or health conditions. Help them to prepare if needed.
• If you require assistance for daily activities, make arrangements in advance for support during the expected weather, ensuring caregivers are aware of and prepared for the weather conditions.
• Charge your phones and keep a flashlight and batteries handy. If you lose power and have a disability and/or use life-sustaining equipment and need immediate assistance, call 911.