Long Island Braces for Significant Snowfall This Weekend

Long Island residents are preparing for a substantial winter storm expected to bring 6 to 9 inches of snow through Saturday, potentially marking the largest snowfall event in several years. The storm, arriving late Friday afternoon, will bring steady to heavy snowfall, transforming the region into a “winter wonderland,” according to forecasts.

Storm Timeline and Projected Accumulation

Snow is anticipated to begin late Friday afternoon and intensify through the evening. Most of Long Island is forecast to receive 6 to 8 inches, with some areas, particularly in central and eastern Long Island, potentially seeing 7 to 9 inches. Western Nassau County is also expected to receive 6-8 inches. The storm is expected to pull away Saturday morning, leaving behind a cold but bright day.

Impact on New York City and Surrounding Areas

Whereas Long Island is expected to bear the brunt of the storm, New York City is also under a winter weather advisory. Manhattan and Brooklyn are predicted to receive 6 to 8 inches of snow, with southern Brooklyn potentially seeing higher totals. Queens could experience 6 to 8 inches, with eastern sections possibly receiving 7 to 9 inches. The Bronx is forecast for around 6 to 8 inches and Staten Island may see 5 to 7 inches.

Regional Context and Recent Snowfall

This storm is notable as it represents the most significant snowfall event in the region since early 2022. The New York Metro area has experienced fewer heavy snowfalls in recent years due to the effects of global warming, with heavy snow becoming “pretty rare.” Historically, Long Island was a popular destination for winter sports, with several ski areas operating from the end of World War II until the 1980s, including Oyster Bay Ski Area, which closed in the late 1950s.

Wider Cold Snap Across the U.S.

The impending snowfall is part of a larger cold snap affecting much of the United States, with nearly 49 million people under some form of weather alert as of December 14, 2025. Along the I-95 corridor, 1 to 4 inches of snow are expected, with localized higher totals in New Jersey and Long Island.

Key Takeaways

• Long Island is expected to receive 6-9 inches of snow through Saturday.
• New York City is also under a winter weather advisory, with projected accumulations of 5-9 inches depending on the borough.
• This storm is the most significant snowfall event in the region in several years.
• The storm is part of a larger cold snap affecting the U.S.

Residents are advised to prepare for hazardous travel conditions and potential disruptions to daily life. Stay tuned to local news and weather updates for the latest information.