Storm Wanes in Upstate New York, But Arctic Air Holds On
The major winter storm that swept across much of the United States this past weekend is drawing to a close in Upstate New York, bringing a brief respite from heavy snowfall and blowing snow. Forecasters say the precipitation should end today, leaving behind slick roads and continued cold conditions that are unlikely to warm quickly. For residents, the question now turns from when the snow will stop to how long the bitter cold will linger.
Why the cold air isn’t leaving soon
The strong Arctic air that fueled the storm remains parked over much of the Northeast. High pressure to the north and a persistent clockwise flow around the jet stream are funneling frigid air into New York State. While the latest models indicate a temporary ridge may offer a slight moderation in daytime temperatures, overnight lows are expected to stay well below freezing through the coming days.
What to expect in the short term
As the snow ends, crews will focus on road safety and clearing disrupted transportation routes. Drivers should anticipate residual slick spots and occasional delays, especially on untreated surfaces during the morning hours. Daytime highs may struggle to reach the teens or low 20s in many areas, with nighttime temperatures dipping into the single digits or below zero in the most exposed locations.
Residents should plan for:
- Extended cold exposure risks for outdoor workers, seniors, and children
- Increased energy usage as households heat homes to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures
- Possible frostbite risks on exposed skin if precautions aren’t taken
How long could the cold last?
Forecasts suggest the Arctic airmass could persist for several days. While there may be brief thaws during some afternoons, especially in areas sheltered from prevailing winds, any heat gained during the day is typically offset by rapid cooling after sunset. By midweek, some guidance hints at a potential moderation, but most meteorologists caution that significant warmth is unlikely before late week or the weekend. In other words, the cold snap could remain in place for most of the coming week, with fluctuations depending on storm tracks and anticyclones shifting across the region.
Health and safety tips for enduring the cold
The enduring cold isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. Here are practical steps to stay safe:
- Dress in layered, insulated clothing; cover extremities, ears, and face when outdoors
- Keep homes at a safe but energy-conscious temperature; check on vulnerable neighbors
- Drive only if necessary; keep an emergency kit in vehicles
- Protect pipes from freezing by allowing a small amount of water to flow and maintaining steady indoor temperatures
<h2 Looking ahead
Meteorologists will monitor for any shifts in the storm track or the arrival of a southern warm front that could alleviate the cold more quickly. Until then, residents should prepare for several more days of subfreezing nights and chilly afternoons. The bigger picture remains a persistent Arctic pattern across the Northeast, with the potential for a gradual thaw only after the pattern shifts.
Bottom line
The snow is ending in Upstate New York, but the bitter cold is not going anywhere soon. Plan for continued cold mornings, careful travel, and steady heat in your home as the region endures the latest wave of winter weather.
