As previously reported, due to the possibility of snow, heavy rain, and ice conditions in the forecast for Sunday and Monday, Jan. 16 and 17, the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) issued a Winter Operations Advisory for Sunday, Jan. 16, beginning at 7 p.m. Snow accumulation during the overnight hours is likely to be up to one inch in all parts of the City before a change-over to heavy rain (in other words, less than a plowable amount), according to DSNY.

 

However, they said New York City is close to the “rain/snow line” of this event, and heavy snowfall, though remote, is a real possibility. In addition, temperatures are expected to drop throughout Monday, which may lead to the build-up of ice on roadways, even if all precipitation comes in the form of rain.

 

New York City Department of Sanitation commissioner,  Edward Grayson, said , “This is a fluid, changing forecast, and while heavy snow is not likely, DSNY never bets on rain in January.” He added, “We are ready to respond to whatever comes our way this weekend. I want to thank the Sanitation employees who will be working through the holiday weekend and urge all New Yorkers to give them the space they need to do their jobs tonight into tomorrow.” 

 

Department officials said its salt spreaders are filled and will be active across the City, beginning at 7 p.m., and brine trucks pretreated roadways and bike lanes on Saturday evening. If snow is heavier than anticipated, department officials said they are prepared to deploy plows in every sector. All residents are encouraged to be especially cautious Monday morning, and to take mass transit if possible.

 

Open Restaurants may continue to offer outdoor and roadway dining throughout this event. Restaurants with roadway seating should be aware that DSNY equipment may spread salt on the roadway.

 

Residents should continue to follow their normal collection schedule for trash, compost and recycling, though delays may occur while the department is in “snow operations” mode. As a reminder, Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and as such, collection is suspended. Additional information can be seen here.

 

Alternate side parking regulations are suspended on Monday due to the holiday. Parking meters are in effect.

 

Department officials said they are also coordinating with other City agencies on snow clearing protocol in accordance with each agency’s written snow plan. All relevant City agencies have been notified and the department will continue to monitor forecasts as the snow event approaches. In addition, DSNY is helping to clear catch-basins across the City on Saturday and Sunday to lessen the risk of flooding if this event does lead to heavy rains.

 

Meanwhile, New York City Emergency Management Department (EMS) issued a travel advisory for Sunday evening through Monday. Officials said periods of heavy rain and strong winds may reduce visibility and create dangerous travel conditions through Monday morning. The National Weather Service issued a citywide Wind Advisory which is in effect from midnight to 8 a.m. Monday for gusts of up to 55 mph.   

  

In addition, as previously reported, a coastal flood warning is in effect for the Bronx and northern Queens from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday. The City’s flash flood emergency plan has been activated, according to EMS, to help mitigate potential flash flooding and ensure a quick, effective, and coordinated response to any flash flood events that do occur. Officials said the City’s “downed tree task force” has also been put on alert to coordinate the response to any potential large downed tree event.  

  

NYC Emergency Management first deputy commissioner, Christina Farrell said, “With a potential mix of snow and heavy rain in the forecast arriving in New York City Sunday night into Monday morning, New Yorkers should prepare for slippery road conditions and potential flooding.” She added, “We urge New Yorkers to exercise caution. If you must travel, we encourage the use of mass transit and please allow for extra travel time.”  

   

Safety Tips  

• If you live in a flood-prone area, keep materials such as sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, and lumber on hand to help protect your home.   
• If you have a disability or access or functional need, make sure your plan addresses how your needs may affect your ability to evacuate, shelter in place, or communicate with emergency workers. Arrange help from family, friends, or service providers if you will need assistance.  
• When outside, avoid walking and driving through flooded areas. As few as six inches of moving water can knock a person over. Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling. One or two feet of water can carry away a vehicle.  
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.  
• If you see downed electrical wires, do not go near them. Never attempt to move or touch them with any object. Be mindful that tree limbs, leaves, or water can cover downed wires from view. Always stay away from downed power lines because they could be live.  
• Report downed wires immediately. If a power line falls on your car while you are in it, stay inside the vehicle and wait for emergency personnel.  
• Allow for extra travel time. New Yorkers are urged to use public transportation.    
• If you must drive, drive slowly. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible.    
• Vehicles take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement.   
• 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.    
• Take care when walking on snow and ice, especially if you are an older adult. Seniors should take extra care outdoors to avoid slips and falls.    
• Have heightened awareness of cars, particularly when approaching or crossing intersections.     

   

Find information on Sanitation snow operations along with residents’ responsibilities during and after snow at nyc.gov/snow.

 

 All winter weather information and information about the City’s response to the storm can be found by visiting the City’s Severe Weather website at www.nyc.gov/severeweather or by calling 311. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for Notify NYC, the City’s free emergency notification system. Through Notify NYC, New Yorkers can sign up to receive phone calls, text messages, and emails alerts about severe weather events and emergencies. To sign up for Notify NYC, call 311, visit www.nyc.gov or follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter.