Long Island forecast: Accumulating snowfall possible Friday into Saturday
A DOT vehicle drops a layer of salt along County Road 24 in Riverhead Tuesday morning as a mix of light rain and snow was falling. Credit: Newsday/James Carbone
After a messy, wintry mix of snow and rain Tuesday, Long Island may see some accumulating snowfall later this week, according to the latest forecast.
The National Weather Service said in its Tuesday afternoon briefing that accumulating snowfall is becoming more likely Friday afternoon into Saturday.
"Low pressure will approach the area Friday afternoon and with cold air already in place, snow will become likely across the area through early Saturday," according to the statement.
There's a 50% to 90% chance of 3 inches or more of snowfall from Long Island through New York City, according to the forecast.
The service said there was some uncertainty with the track of the low pressure system, which will ultimately dictate snowfall amounts for the area.
Long Islanders fought through a messy morning commute Tuesday as the region was hit by a mix of snow and rain that turned to all rain by midday.
Commuters should be having an easier path home this evening.
Tuesday night will be mostly cloudy, with temperatures in the upper 30s and west winds of 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph, forecasters said. Wednesday is expected to be clear with highs in the low 40s and gusts as high as 33 mph.
Increasing clouds are expected Wednesday night with a low around 27. Christmas Day will be mostly cloudy with a high near 43 and a slight chance of rain and snow showers before 10 a.m. that could turn to just rain before noon.
Whether you’re traveling or staying on Long Island for the holiday, people should plan ahead for the season’s next chance of accumulating snow on Friday.
"I encourage folks to monitor the forecast, especially if have any sort of travel plans on Friday or Saturday," National Weather Service meteorologist Dominic Ramunni said. "It certainly, at this point, could have some significant impacts to that."
Newsday's Maureen Mullarkey contributed to this story.
Check back for updates on this developing story.
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