After a record warm holiday for much of the east, a sharp shift is expected after Christmas, with a winter storm forecast to bring snow and ice to parts of the northeast region from Friday into Saturday during a peak travel window.
Significant Snow for Some
Forecast guidance shows the potential for 5 to 8 inches of snow across parts of New York, including New York City, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, with locally higher totals approaching a foot in isolated areas.
Freezing Rain
Icing is also a concern, especially in central and western Pennsylvania, where slippery roads, downed trees and scattered power outages are possible.
What Travelers Should Consider
• Build extra time into your plans if driving through the Northeast, especially Saturday. .
• Delays are possible at airports and along major highways.
• Check flight and rail status early and often, and be prepared for schedule changes.
Car Travel Safety
Not that this is going to be a huge storm, disruptions to highway travel is possible
If driving, be sure to stay prepared. Here are a few suggestions.
- Winterize your vehicle
- Keep a full tank of gas, good tires, windshield fluid and an emergency kit
- Monitor the forecast during the entire trip not just before you leave.
- Have a backup plan and be flexible on lodging options just in case travel is postponed.