The MTA says subways and most of the bus lines are operating normally so far this morning, but the Office of Emergency Management has issued a rush hour Hazardous Travel Advisory urging motorists to take mass transit instead of driving. Don't let the lack of dramatic snow accumulation fool you; meteorologists predict that we are at the mercy of a two day marathon storm, which is expected to bring four inches of snow and sleet to parts of NYC by mid-morning. This will be followed by a thick coating of freezing rain in the afternoon and more snow and sleet late tonight, turning the city into a delicious creme brulee of wintery misery. A winter storm warning is in effect until Wednesday at 7 p.m. Happy February!
City officials are also concerned that ice accumulations may knock down some power lines and tree limbs, and the Buildings Department is reminding property owners that in addition to shoveling sidewalks and steps, they also need to get up on the roof to clear snow from rooftops, awnings and overhangs, preferably before the roofs cave in on their tenants. On the plus side, alternate side parking regulations and parking meter rules are currently suspended until further notice to facilitate snow removal. As for mass transit, the MTA issued this disclaimer:
While snow is a primary concern, this storm will feature freezing rain and ice, both can have severe impacts on the roads and rails that carry MTA vehicles. It’s important to note that each storm impacts parts of our region differently, and that appears to be especially true in the case of this storm. The accumulation of snow from previous storms also continues to present challenges in some areas of the MTA service region. Buses service will be monitored for street access and some vehicles will be outfitted with chains for increased traction.
