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Just as we started to believe that the slush mountains might finally melt into memory, forecasters are watching a new winter threat that could send the city back into snow-shoveling mode.
Meteorologists say a powerful coastal system fueled by a so-called “bomb cyclone” could move toward the Northeast this weekend, bringing anything from a light dusting to a full-on sequel to January’s snow chaos. The system is expected to travel across the country before strengthening off the Carolina coast on Sunday, potentially delivering snow and gusty winds to the tri-state area into Monday.
But before you start panic-buying bread, the forecast remains wildly uncertain. AccuWeather meteorologist Alex DaSilva told the New York Post that the “more likely” scenario is a modest event that drops just a couple of inches across New York City, with current projections leaning toward roughly one to three inches of accumulation. Still, there’s a smaller—but very real—chance the storm intensifies closer to the coast, which could push totals closer to a foot if everything lines up just wrong.
In meteorology-speak, a “bomb cyclone” happens when a storm’s pressure rapidly drops, allowing it to strengthen quickly and produce heavy precipitation and strong winds. Forecasters warn that gusts could reach around 40 mph if the system tracks close enough, which could make for a messy Monday morning commute.
What makes this weekend’s outlook especially frustrating is how much the models disagree. Some long-range projections show the main low-pressure system sliding offshore, limiting snowfall in the city. Others suggest a secondary low could develop near the Jersey Shore, creating a heavier band of snow Sunday night into early Monday, particularly for Long Island and parts of South Jersey.
All of this comes as the city is still digging out from last month’s Winter Storm Fern, which dumped more than 11 inches of snow in Central Park and left dirty snowbanks lining sidewalks for weeks. Streets have only just begun to feel normal again, making the possibility of another storm feel like a particularly cruel plot twist.
The one thing forecasters agree on: expect at least some snow starting Sunday afternoon, even if totals end up on the lighter side. By later this afternoon, meteorologists say they should have a clearer picture of the storm’s exact track and intensity.
Until then, consider this a gentle reminder to keep an eye on the forecast—and maybe keep your favorite cozy-night-in plans on standby, just in case winter decides to make a dramatic reappearance.