Image Source: ABC7 New York
Flights delayed are making headlines in New York City and New Jersey, as the tri-state area experiences its first widespread snowfall of the season. The snowstorm started late Saturday and continued well into Sunday, blanketing the region and affecting travel conditions for residents and visitors alike.
Winter Wonderland Turns Into Travel Nightmare
The season’s initial significant snowfall has created slick, hazardous roads across the tri-state area, leading to numerous delays and cancellations at local airports. Newark Airport, along with John F. Kennedy and LaGuardia airports, experienced significant delays earlier as travelers were informed of ground stops due to the severe weather conditions. This has resulted in a domino effect for air travel, with many flights delayed throughout the day.
In addition to grounded flights, the snowstorm accumulated 1-3 inches in Manhattan and up to 6 inches in other areas such as Staten Island and parts of New Jersey. Many drivers, caught off guard by the sudden snowfall, were warned to avoid travel if possible. The New Jersey Department of Transportation had to remind motorists to stay off the roads, which reported multiple accidents, particularly on the New Jersey Turnpike in Newark.
Emergency Crews Respond to the Storm
Road crews worked tirelessly throughout Sunday, plowing and salting roads to ensure safety for those who must travel. Ambrosio Hernandez, a local worker, noted that he had been working overnight to keep the pathways clear for residents. Many public transportation services also faced disruptions, leading to further complications for commuters.
As snow continued to fall, Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden discussed ongoing law enforcement efforts to maintain public safety amid the chaos. Affected residents, such as local pharmacist Lawrence Sandi, recounted the struggles they faced while commuting, expressing concerns over how the weather impacted their essential travel.
Sneaky Snow Day Fun
Despite the travel woes, not everyone was deterred by the snow. In Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, locals embraced the winter wonderland, enjoying activities like sleigh riding and cross-country skiing. Regina Cahill, a long-time resident, enjoyed the novelty of shoveling snow and expressed the sense of pride she felt maintaining her property during such weather events.
Meanwhile, New York City Mayor Eric Adams responded to the chaos by announcing that alternate side parking would be suspended on Monday, making it easier for snow crews to operate but reminding city dwellers to continue paying parking meters.
Utility Outages Add to the Challenges
The snowstorm’s effects extended beyond transportation issues, with Con Edison reporting over 400 customers without power, predominantly in Brooklyn. These complications highlight the numerous challenges posed by winter weather, as city services and utilities worked diligently to address outages and restore power.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect
By Sunday afternoon, conditions began to clear, although freezing temperatures are expected to persist. Officials state that high pressure will return on Monday, bringing a bright but frigid week, with temperatures gradually warming up to near 50 degrees by Thursday.
In the meantime, local authorities urge residents to stay informed about weather updates and prepare for continued winter conditions. Those who do venture out are reminded to exercise caution and patience, as the county’s road crews work diligently to restore normalcy after the winter storm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the flight delays in NYC and NJ?
The flight delays were primarily caused by a substantial winter snowstorm that affected road conditions and visibility at local airports.
How much snow fell during the storm?
The storm brought about 1-3 inches of snow to Manhattan, with higher totals of 3-6 inches reported in parts of Staten Island and New Jersey.
Are there any public transportation delays?
Yes, public transportation, including New Jersey Transit, faced delays due to the winter weather conditions.
What safety measures are being taken for drivers?
The New Jersey Department of Transportation advised residents to stay off the roads and has deployed crews to plow and salt roadways.
How can residents report power outages?
Residents experiencing power outages can report them directly to Con Edison through their customer service channels.
