LI Snow Accumulation Prediction: How Much Snow Will Hit Area Tuesday?

LONG ISLAND, NY — A dramatic shift in the forecast means a lot more snow ahead for Long Island Monday night into Tuesday morning, according to the National Weather Service.

According to Bryan Ramsey, meteorologist for the National Weather Service office in Upton, a winter storm watch is in effect for Long Island from 4 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Although initially only about an inch of snow was predicted, the storm system tracked a little farther south than expected, "bringing more snow to Long Island," Ramsey said. The coastal section of Long Island are expected to see 4 to 6 inches, with the interior and western sections predicted to see 6 to 8 inches.

"All it takes is for the storm to track a hair differently," for the significantly different outcome, Ramsey said.

Winds on Tuesday are expected to be about 25 to 40 miles per hour, with strong gusts, especially on the South Shore of Long Island. Minor coastal flooding is expected in southern Nassau County, especially near the bays, most likely during the high tide cycle Monday afternoon, Ramsey said.

Temperatures will reach the upper 40s Monday then drop Monday night, with temperatures in the low to mid 30s expected Tuesday before dropping to just below freezing Tuesday night, Ramsey said.

Rain is expected to begin early Monday night, transitioning to snow early Tuesday morning; snow is expected to fall throughout the day before tapering off in the late afternoon to early evening, Ramsey said.

"The most significant impacts will be felt Tuesday morning during the morning commute," he said.

Gov. Kathy Hochul urged caution during the storm.

"I'd like to begin with the acknowledgement that Mother Nature is sending her love our way for Valentine's Day in the form of a massive snowstorm," with 6 to 8 inches expected on Long Island.

"The greatest impact will be on tomorrow's commute," she said. "People have been accustomed to a fairly mild winter, so take all the necessary precautions. Stay tuned to your news. If you can work remotely, that's great. Make sure that our roads are clear for the plows as always."