New York paralyzed: temperatures plummet after January winter storm

New York faces one of the most challenging weather phenomena in recent years. Temperatures in the region will drop sharply after a winter storm hits the city with heavy snowfall, cutting winds, and the subsequent arrival of icy air that promises to make the experience almost unbearable.

The most severe winter storm: heavy snow and dry, freezing air

The region is experiencing an unprecedented intensity of snowfall. Up to two inches of snow are expected to fall per hour during the most critical moments, with total accumulations between eight and 12 inches in New York, Long Island, and Westchester, according to the National Weather Service.

This is not just a typical winter event. The dry, cold air that follows the storm will bring gusts of wind up to 35 miles per hour (56 km/h), causing an abrupt drop in temperatures that will leave even residents accustomed to cold in a state of maximum alert.

Timeline breakdown: how the phenomenon evolves in New York

The sequence of events reveals why this weather system is so dangerous:

During the morning and early afternoon of January 25, the city will experience the peak of intense snowfall, with rates of up to two inches per hour. Streets will quickly become covered.

Between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., the situation will change. Snow will turn into sleet and freezing rain, creating a layer of ice up to 0.1 inches thick on surfaces, further increasing risks.

After 2 a.m. on January 26, precipitation will significantly decrease. However, the damage will already be done: icy, glacial air will dominate New York and its surroundings, with temperatures dropping to 10-20°F (-12 to -7°C), producing wind chills that reach dangerous levels and concrete risks of hypothermia.

Extreme conditions: near-zero visibility and icy winds

During the storm’s peak, New York will experience almost zero visibility. During the heaviest snowfall, visibility will drop below a quarter mile, making driving extremely hazardous.

At the same time, temperatures in New York will plummet abruptly, accompanied by wind gusts up to 35 mph that will intensify the sensation of extreme cold. Wind chills will be especially dangerous for anyone exposed outdoors without proper protection.

Real impacts: affected travel, infrastructure at risk

Authorities strongly recommend delaying any non-essential travel during this period. New York’s roads will be covered in snow, and a significant impact on transportation is expected both Monday morning and potentially throughout the afternoon and night.

Beyond travel, the phenomenon threatens to cause structural damage:

• Fallen tree branches: from isolated to scattered across the region
• Power outages: possible blackouts distributed throughout the New York metropolitan area and Long Island

These secondary impacts could prolong the storm’s effects beyond what the initial snowfall suggests.

Safety tips: how to navigate New York during the storm

If traveling during this winter storm is absolutely necessary, the National Weather Service recommends these precautions:

• Clear all snow from your vehicle before driving
• Drive at reduced speeds and with extreme caution
• Maintain a much greater following distance than usual between vehicles
• Carry an emergency kit in your car (blankets, flashlight, first aid kit)

If you get stranded on the road:

• Stay inside your vehicle: it’s your best protection
• Conserve your mobile phone’s battery for emergency calls
• Make visible signals: place a colorful scarf on the antenna or create prominent marks to help rescuers locate you

The extreme temperatures following the storm in New York require maximum preparation and caution from all residents of the region.