Ice, sleet and snow could freeze in the tri-state region on the long Presidents Day weekend, forecasters warn, with some of the worst weather arriving just in time for Valentine’s Day on Sunday morning.
For Central and Southern New Jersey, a Winter Weather Warning is in place, but forecasters say the entire area is in unpredictable conditions as a winter system moves in from the south on Saturday afternoon.
Accuweather senior meteorologist Alan Reppert said, “It could bring a mix of some sleet, freezing rain and even some snow to the area. Starting late in the day tomorrow and continuing through our night to even Sunday morning before it ends.”
There will not be much snow accumulation, however, forecasters said, the messy precipitation coupled with continued temperatures in the 20s could make New Yorkers think twice about Valentine’s Day ride.
On Sunday night through Tuesday morning, snow-covered roads and hazardous travel are expected. For those who have to drive on Monday morning and afternoon and Tuesday morning, the greatest effect would be.
It’s not clear precisely how much snow could reach the area during this storm, but much of the data indicates that with some ice and sleet accumulations, mostly southeast of Cincinnati, 6 to 8 inches of snow may be likely. But, again, it’s hard to estimate precisely how much accumulation we’re going to see right now.
A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Sunday evening through Tuesday afternoon by the National Weather Service. This is likely to be upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning for all or parts of the Tri-State.
For Presidents’ Day on Monday, more inclement weather is in store, with sleet and freezing rain arriving in the city in the afternoon and sticking around until Tuesday morning, according to the Accuweather forecast.
Warmer temperatures and clear weather, with more snowfall likely on Thursday, are forecast by midweek.