The post-Christmas “Winter Storm Watch”
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, the post-Christmas “Winter Storm Watch” has officially been upgraded. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the entire Tri-State region, effective from 4:00 PM today, Friday, Dec. 26, through 1:00 PM Saturday, Dec. 27.
Forecasters have increased their confidence in a heavy snowfall event that will directly impact the Friday evening commute and create “near-whiteout” conditions tonight.
❄️ Major Snow Totals & Intensifying Rates
The latest models indicate this system will be more potent than initially thought.
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Total Accumulations: Widespread totals of 6 to 9 inches are now expected.
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The “Danger Zone” Timing: The heaviest snow will fall between 6:00 PM and Midnight tonight.
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Snowfall Rates: During the peak window, snow will fall at a staggering 1 to 2 inches per hour.
📍 Areas Impacted: Who is Under the Warning?
The Warning covers the most densely populated corridors of the Northeast, including:
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Northeast New Jersey: Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Hudson, and Union counties.
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Southeast New York: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange.
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Southern Connecticut: Fairfield and New Haven counties.
🚗 Travel Warning: “Very Difficult” to Impossible
Authorities are strongly urging residents to delay all non-essential travel. If you are currently visiting family for the holidays, you should aim to be off the roads by 4:00 PM today.
Hazardous Conditions Expected:
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Whiteout Potential: Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow.
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Icy Infrastructure: Bridges and overpasses will freeze first, becoming “slick and hazardous” almost immediately as the sun sets.
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Commuter Chaos: The Friday evening rush hour is expected to be severely impacted, with major delays on the GSP, NJ Turnpike, I-87, and I-95.
🛡️ Survival & Preparedness: A Winter Kit is Essential
If travel is absolutely necessary, the National Weather Service advises carrying a Winter Storm Survival Kit in your vehicle:
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Essential Gear: Shovel, blankets, extra warm clothing, and a flashlight with extra batteries.
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Vehicle Prep: Booster cables and tire chains (where permitted).
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Supplies: First aid kit, high-energy food, and plenty of water.
⚠️ Emergency Note: If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle. Ensure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning while running the engine for heat.
Winter Storm Snapshot: Dec 26–27
| Metric | Forecast |
| Warning Window | Today 4 PM – Saturday 1 PM |
| Total Snowfall | 6–9 Inches |
| Peak Snow Rates | 1–2″ Per Hour (6 PM – Midnight) |
| Visibility | Less than 1/4 mile at times |
My foreman of the Dpw better buy me coffee,