Winter Storm Janus brought more snow and freezing conditions than expected, forcing the National Weather Service to upgrade Long Island’s Winter Storm Advisory to a Winter Storm Warning, which was in effect until 8 a.m.
Cuomo announced a State of Emergency for lower New York and Long Island, but now the real danger is from the frigid conditions outside. Temperatures this morning are in the narrow range of 10 to 16 degrees, which will feel worse with wind gusts of up to 40 miles per hour.
Much of Nassau and Suffolk Counties are still stifled under heavy blankets of snow, with most areas reporting 10 to 15 inches. The National Weather Service has advised that anyone who must travel this morning should take certain safety measures, as blowing and drifting snow will make for hazardous travel and walking conditions that will make snow removal difficult and make the morning commute particularly dangerous.
Cuomo stated Tuesday evening that State officials activated 239 plows, 27 front loaders and 428 operators on Long Island, including 30 plows and 71 operators deployed from upstate. To see the road conditions for your area, take a look at the Long Island Traffic Cameras.
The Long Island Rail Road is operating on a weekend schedule on Wednesday, and several tracks are already facing delays due to winter weather conditions. The MTA also enacted limited bus service on the West Hempstead Branch and between Greenport and Ronkonkoma
Buses on Long Island are moving particularly slow today because of the roads. The Suffolk County Transit buses suspended their service last night at 6 p.m., but they are expected to hit the roads at 8 a.m. Wednesday morning, but delays are to be expected. The Nassau County NICE buses still have all routes running, but the snow is causing hour-long delays in some areas.
For the latest in school closings and delays, go to LongIsland.com’s School Closings Page.
For the most up to date weather information, visit the LongIsland.com Weather Center, where you can find the latest weather forecasts, advisories, and more.
[Source: National Weather Service]
Photo via the MTA Flickr page.