Winter storm creates dangerous travel conditions across New York area
NEW YORK (WABC) -- Hundreds of accidents were reported around the New York area after a winter storm hit the Tri-State with several inches of snow Wednesday.
New Jersey bore the brunt of the winter blast, with Governor Phil Murphy saying the biggest concern was the evening commute. By mid-afternoon, more than 167 accidents had been reported on Garden State roadways.
"We did have a jackknifed tractor-trailer on Interstate 80 on milepost 10, which speaks to why we do the commercial tractor bans," New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan said.
A state of emergency remained in effect for New Jersey, which saw upwards of 6 inches of snow in some areas.
A general 1 to 3 inches fell in New York City before the precipitation turned to sleet for the nighttime hours.
The storm is expected to shift entirely to rain overnight and move out entirely by daybreak.
The city began loading sanders 24 hours before the snow started falling just before noon Wednesday.
"When you wake up (Wednesday), it's going to be dry, you could have a false sense of security," OEM Commissioner Joseph Esposito said. "It can look like a nice day, but around noon we're going to get some snow and rush hour will be the worst."
City officials were determined to prevent a repeat performance of the November storm when New York City was virtually paralyzed by just three inches of snow that fell like an avalanche during rush hour.
"November 15th, I remember it well," one motorist said. "It took me about three and a half hours to get home that night."
Commuters were urged to take mass transit.
Amtrak modified its Keystone Service between New York and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, because of the storm, but Northeast Corridor service between Boston and Washington and points south operated as scheduled.
Amtrak passengers are advised to check on their train's status throughout the day.
Most of New Jersey is under a winter weather advisory issued by the National Weather Service. Many schools canceled classes or held early dismissals.
Governor Murphy advised motorists that the transition to sleet and rain could create another kind of driving problem.
"As this system transitions to all rain, accumulated snow and ice may prevent water from draining," he said. "Don't venture into any flooded areas."
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