The Northeast is threatened by a big snowstorm the National Weather Service (NWS) has described as potentially historic. Authorities have already warned about the upcoming blizzard urging residents to make the necessary preparations.
In a news conference held on Sunday, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said that the coming storm is one that the city has never seen before. To better illustrate the intensity of the coming weather event, de Blasio held up a list of the top 10 snowstorms that occurred since 1827.
Based on this list, the snowiest storm New York City has experienced occurred in 2006 when 26.9 inches of snow fell. This was followed by a blizzard in 1947 that dumped 26 inches, and one in 1888 marked by 21 inches of snow. A day after Christmas in 2010, 20 inches of snow fell down and this paralyzed the Long Island Rail Road, stranded ambulances and an A train, and trapped commuters for hours.
De Blasio pointed out that the upcoming storm could possibly top the list. The mayor likewise advised people to prepare for the worst and not to underestimate the storm as he urged them to remain indoors as well as avoid powerful winds and dangerous roads.
The snowstorm is anticipated to start with flurries on Monday morning and is likely to get worse over the course of the day. Monday and Tuesday is expected to have heavy snow and powerful winds, which could dump up to 3 feet of snow from northern New Jersey to southern Maine.
In preparation for the upcoming extreme weather event, de Blasio said that the Sanitation Department has come up with 12-hour shift schedules consisting of 2,400 employees each shift. Almost 500 salt spreaders were also tasked to go out before the snow. Once two inches of snow has fallen, over 2,000 plows will be deployed to clear the road.
"My message to New Yorkers is to prepare for something worse than we have seen before," de Blacio said. "Now is the time to get ready for this extreme weather."
Residents can prepare for the coming storm by stocking up on at least three-day supply of essentials which include water, first aid supplies, food, medications, as well as light and heat sources. Cellphones should be charged and emergency contacts should be noted.
Although staying indoors is recommended, there may be instances when travel becomes necessary so ensure that the vehicle is prepared for winter weather conditions. Make sure to insulate the home to keep the cold air out.
Those who may need to go to a shelter can text 43352 (4FEMA) the following: SHELTER + your ZIP code to get details on the nearest shelter.
