NYC Faces Biggest Winter Storm In Years, De Blasio Says

NEW YORK CITY — Eight to 12 inches of snow, perhaps more. Winds up to 50 mph. Blizzard-like conditions.

New York City faces the brunt of a major winter storm carrying all those woes, said Mayor Bill de Blasio.

City dwellers should take precautions ahead of likely significant disruptions and dangerous conditions, especially on roads, starting Wednesday and especially Thursday morning, he said.

"This could be the biggest storm in several years," he said.

A hazardous travel advisory will take effect Wednesday afternoon through Thursday night, said Deann Criswell, the city's emergency management commissioner.

Both Criswell and de Blasio asked New Yorkers and commuters to avoid driving, particularly into Manhattan.

The storm likely will hit the city Wednesday at 4 p.m., just in time for the evening rush hour. De Blasio said officials are worried about motorists getting out of the city.

"Use mass transit," he said. "If you can work from home, even better."

Forecasts predict the storm will be at its worst Thursday morning.

Before then, city sanitation crews will start de-icing streets Tuesday evening in preparation for bringing out plows the following night, officials said.

De Blasio unveiled a wave of cancellations or potential closures for the coming days. Roadway outdoor dining will be suspended Wednesday at 2 p.m., with the hope that it'll reopen Thursday evening, he said.

All other forms of outdoor dining technically will continue, he said.

Alternate side parking will be suspended Wednesday and Thursday, de Blasio said.

Schools likely will remain open Wednesday but Thursday is a different picture, de Blasio said.

Officials will make a decision on schools that day once a National Weather Service report comes in Wednesday at about 6 p.m., he said.

"Parents be ready with an alternative for Thursday in case the snow is bad enough that we have to close the school buildings," he said. "Obviously, remote education will be there for all kids so it's not like the school days of old. Kids will have that option whether they're happy about it or not they will have learning on Thursday either way."

Shipments of the new coronavirus vaccine will continue as scheduled, de Blasio said.

"Everyone will keep those deliveries happening," he said.

MTA officials said subways, buses and commuter trains will keep running, although they urged people to avoid travel unless necessary.

"For those who must travel, the MTA suggests checking new.mta.info for the latest service updates before traveling, and to use extreme caution while navigating the system, especially on outdoor platforms and stairs," an MTA release states. "Customers should sign up for real-time service alerts via text or email. These alerts are also available via the MTA’s apps: MYmta, Metro-North Train Time and Long Island Rail Road Train Time."

Criswell said New Yorkers can keep track of updates through nyc.gov/notifyNYC.

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