New York City leaders say they’re taking this weekend’s snow threat seriously — and preparations are already underway across Brooklyn.
Forecasters are calling for a significant winter storm that could move in late Saturday night and linger through Monday, with the heaviest snow expected Sunday into early Sunday evening. Some areas could see 8 to 14 inches of snow, with slick roads and poor visibility likely at times.
In Downtown Brooklyn, city agencies are coordinating plans from the New York City Emergency Management headquarters as the storm gets closer.
Crews from the New York City Department of Sanitation say they’re ready to roll if snow starts piling up. About 2,000 sanitation workers are preparing for 12-hour shifts, working around the clock if conditions worsen.
The city has 700 salt spreaders ready and is already pre-treating highways, main streets and bike lanes with brine to help keep ice from sticking once snow begins to fall. Officials say the goal is to stay ahead of the storm — not scramble after it hits.
Roads could be especially dangerous on bridges and overpasses, and drivers are being urged to slow down or avoid travel altogether if possible.
Gov. Kathy Hochul is also encouraging people to prepare.
“Try to not be outside as much as you can,” Hochul said. “That might mean stocking up on groceries and water, pet food, baby food, flashlight batteries — everything you may need now, so you don’t have to go out in the very cold.”
City leaders say this could be the first major winter storm of the season, and they’re asking New Yorkers to do their part — limit travel, give plows and salt trucks space, and check in on neighbors who may need help.
Officials say forecasts can still change, but preparations will continue as the storm approaches.