Meteorologists are predicting that the amount of snowfall in New York City this winter will be significantly higher than last year, with the possibility of more frequent snowstorms. According to the latest forecast from AccuWeather, New York City is expected to receive 17 to 21 inches of snow this winter, a sharp increase from less than 13 inches last year.
AccuWeather’s Chief Long-Range Forecaster Paul Pastelok predicts that starting in December, multiple low-pressure systems may form in western Canada, move across the central United States, and then track along the Mid-Atlantic coast to reach cities on the East Coast. He mentioned that despite the weather patterns being similar to last year during the fall, an “invisible storm” could quietly shift from the Midwest to the East Coast, bringing significant snowfall.
However, AccuWeather also notes that the total snowfall for this winter is still projected to be below the historical average of 29.8 inches in New York City, with overall temperatures remaining around normal levels. By early February, a “strong arctic outbreak” from the central United States may head towards the East Coast, leading to even lower temperatures that month and bringing storm systems from the southwest direction.
Meteorologist Pastelok stated that February is shaping up to be colder and potentially more stormy, but whether there will be a mix of rain and snow remains to be seen, which could pose travel difficulties.
In contrast, the city of Buffalo in western New York State is bracing for a more severe winter. AccuWeather forecasts that the area could see 90 to 100 inches of snow, nearly five times more than in New York City. Residents there are advised to prepare early for cold weather and snow removal.