Winter Storm Stella is forecast to blast up the East Coast late Monday and Tuesday, impacting tens of millions of people. Here's everything you need to know.
Nor'easter Forming Off The Carolinas
A powerful nor'easter, Winter Storm Stella, will develop along the East Coast late Monday night and roll through the Northeast deep into Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service. Heavy snow and strong winds with gusts of up to 50 mph could knock out power to thousands. A blizzard warning has been placed in effect for New York City and parts of northern New Jersey and southern Connecticut.
Some Areas Could Get Hit With Two Feet Of Snow
Light snow is expected to begin late Monday night and intensify overnight into early Tuesday morning. The heaviest snowfall is expected Tuesday morning through the afternoon. Some areas along the coast could also see a mix of rain, sleet, and snow. Areas that get all snow could be hit with 12 to 18 inches, with totals reaching up to two feet in some areas. At the height of the storm, snow could fall at a alarming rate of 2-4 inches per hour!
Air Travelers, Beware
More than 750 Monday flights were already cancelled by 8 a.m, most related to a major storm that swept through the Midwest over the weekend. Almost 1,000 Tuesday flights were also cancelled. Airports such as JFK and LGA and Newark could stop flights for much of the day on Tuesday.
The Plows Are Comin'
The New York City Sanitation Department has already prepared over 1,600 snow plows and 700 salt spreaders for the storm. More than 280,000 tons of rock salt is available to sprinkle on the sidewalks and walk ways. Workers will work 12-hour shifts trying to eliminate as much of the snow as possible.
Commuting
Alternate side parking rules are in effect and commuters are urged to take mass transit. Subway service in NYC could be modified or suspended, depending on the severity of the weather. NJ transit has also begun to winterize its equipment in advance of the storm.
What Happens Next?
Sorry, spring lovers! After the storm exits, a second blast of arctic air will keep the eastern half of the nation in its grip for the rest of the week. Stay safe, everyone!