Residents should be prepared for potentially dangerous travel conditions and take necessary safety measures during the snowstorm.

A mix of rain and snow is expected in the tri-state area, affecting regions such as the Hudson Valley, interior New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Heavier snow accumulation is anticipated in these areas.

Here’s what you need to know:

1) A powerful winter storm is set to hit the tri-state area overnight, transitioning from rain to snow by Tuesday morning. This change in weather could make the commute risky.

2) The approaching storm could result in snow falling at a rate of up to 2 inches per hour. New York City and surrounding areas might see approximately 8 inches of snow, but there’s uncertainty as the storm’s track continues to shift.

3) A Winter Storm warning is in place for most of the area until 6 p.m. Tuesday. NYC schools will switch to fully remote learning for Tuesday. Additionally, alternate side parking regulations in NYC have been suspended for Tuesday.

A significant winter storm is on the way,potentially bringing over six inches of snow to many areas in the tri-state region. Commuting in New York City might be difficult due to the expected heavy snowfall.

Snow accumulation could reach up to 8 inches in New York City, northern New Jersey, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and nearly all of Connecticut. Meanwhile, areas further north and west of the city may see less snow, as well as central New Jersey and the Jersey Shore, where 3-5 inches are expected.

In certain areas such as Suffolk County on Long Island and Sussex County in New Jersey, snowfall totals could exceed initial forecasts.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for several regions, including New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, Fairfield County in Connecticut, and Bergen and Hudson counties in New Jersey. Additionally, a travel advisory for the city will be in place starting Tuesday. You can find weather alerts here.

New York City schools will transition to remote learning on Tuesday due to the storm, Mayor Eric Adams announced. Yonkers Public Schools will be closed on Tuesday and may consider a delayed opening on Wednesday. Residents can check for school closings.

“We’re advising New Yorkers: if possible, stay home and opt for public transportation if you need to travel,” Mayor Adams emphasized on Monday. “Reducing traffic will aid in snow removal efforts and enhance safety.”

The storm is likely to make Tuesday morning’s commute difficult. Snow could fall at rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour along the I-95 corridor from Philadelphia to Boston. In areas like eastern Pennsylvania, northern New Jersey, and the Hudson Valley, snowfall rates may be even higher.

The snow is expected to subside before the evening commute, but there could still be some lingering effects. The Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) discussed its snow preparations in a news conference on Monday, assuring that operations will continue with minor adjustments.

We plan to operate buses, subways, and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) as usual, and our transit services on Metro-North will have a robust but slightly modified schedule,” stated MTA Chairman Janno Lieber. “Changes will include adjustments to peak times and branch-line services.”

City Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that they are prepared to clear “every street, every highway, and every bike lane” in the five boroughs once snow accumulations reach two inches or more. With over 2,000 plows on standby, they are ready for the task. Additionally, more than 700 salt spreaders will begin treating roads after midnight.

How much snow will we get?

Warmer temperatures, rain, and sleet could potentially reduce snowfall totals for New York City and coastal areas, but a drop in temperature or a southern shift in the storm’s track could lead to higher amounts.

As per Storm Team 4’s forecast, nearly the entire tri-state area, including New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, northern New Jersey, and most of Connecticut, could see 5 to 8 inches of snow. Local amounts may vary, with some areas experiencing snowfall rates of up to two inches per hour.

In Philadelphia, there’s a possibility of up to 5 inches of snow.

New York City and nearby coastal areas might get more snow if temperatures drop on Tuesday. Additionally, there’s concern about coastal flooding.

In New York City, alternate side parking rules will be suspended for Tuesday. However, parking meters will still be enforced. Residents are reminded to be aware of their parking responsibilities.

“Property owners, don’t forget: clearing snow and ice from sidewalks is your responsibility,” reminded DSNY Commissioner Jessica Tisch on Monday. “While the city takes care of streets and bike lanes, ensuring sidewalks are safe is up to you. We’ve observed unsafe sidewalks in previous snow events, so we’ll enforce these rules tomorrow to prioritize safety.”

Westchester County has initiated a local state of emergency beginning at 10 p.m. on Monday. Residents are encouraged to stock up on food and supplies to avoid venturing outside during the storm.

Additionally, Bridgeport has declared a snow emergency and parking ban, effective from 8 p.m. on Monday for the Connecticut city.

New Jersey hasn’t declared a state of emergency, but Governor Phil Murphy announced that state offices will open late. He also mentioned travel bans for commercial vehicles.

“We’re expecting heavy snow tonight, so it’s best to stay off the roads tomorrow morning if you can. Working from home is a good idea,” Governor Murphy advised during a press conference.

Following the storm on Tuesday, we can expect cool but seasonable temperatures for the rest of the week.

Valentine’s Day is forecasted to be partly sunny with highs in the 30s and lows in the 20s.

There’s a chance of snow showers next Saturday, but it’s too early to provide definitive information.