UPDATE: Snow Totals Rise Across Long Island and New Jersey as Winter Storm Delivers Over 2 Feet in Some Areas

Snow kept piling up overnight, and for some communities, it crossed the two-foot mark.

Parts of Long Island and several areas in New Jersey have now recorded more than 24 inches of snowfall, according to the latest storm reports.

The numbers matter. Snow totals at this level can shut down major roadways, delay transit, and strain local services.

Officials are urging residents to check local advisories as cleanup continues and additional snowfall lingers in some spots.

Latest Snowfall Totals Across Long Island and New Jersey

Snow reports collected from local weather stations show wide variation, but some of the highest totals are concentrated along eastern Long Island and parts of central and northern New Jersey.

Several communities reported more than 24 inches, with drifts even higher in open areas.

Meteorologists said snowfall rates at times exceeded 2 inches per hour during the peak of the storm.

“This was a high-impact event, especially where the heaviest bands stalled,” a meteorologist with the National Weather Service said in a morning update. “That’s where we’re seeing the two-foot totals.”

How the Winter Storm Developed

The storm system moved into the region late Friday and intensified as it tracked along the coast.

Cold air in place allowed precipitation to fall almost entirely as snow across Long Island and much of New Jersey.

As the system strengthened offshore, it pulled in Atlantic moisture, increasing snowfall rates overnight.

Bands of heavy snow lingered for hours in certain locations, driving totals well past early forecasts in some communities.

Timeline of Snowfall Accumulation

Friday Evening: Snow begins spreading across New Jersey before reaching Long Island.

Late Night: Heavier snow bands form; visibility drops below a quarter mile in some areas.

Early Morning: Reports of 12 to 18 inches widespread; isolated areas approach 24 inches.

Mid-Morning Update: Some spots surpass 2 feet of snow, with plows still working to clear main roads.

Local emergency management officials said road conditions remain hazardous in secondary streets.

Travel Disruptions and Road Conditions

Road crews worked through the night to clear highways and major arteries.

Still, snow-covered streets and icy patches slowed traffic during the morning commute.

In parts of New Jersey, minor accidents were reported as drivers attempted to navigate untreated roads.

Transportation officials urged residents to delay travel unless necessary.

“Plow crews are making progress, but side streets are still difficult,” a county spokesperson said. “Give them space to do their jobs.”

Airports in the region reported delays and cancellations tied to runway clearing operations.

Impact on Residents and Services

Heavy snowfall can affect more than roads.

Garbage collection schedules were pushed back in some towns. Schools in several districts announced closures or remote learning days.

Residents were advised to clear vents and fire hydrants near their homes to prevent safety hazards.

Utility providers reported scattered outages, largely due to snow weighing down tree branches.

Emergency responders said call volumes increased during the height of the storm, particularly for stalled vehicles and minor crashes.

Why the Two-Foot Snowfall Mark Matters

Snowfall exceeding 24 inches typically requires extended cleanup efforts.

Plowing operations can take days to fully restore residential streets, especially when snowbanks narrow roadways.

The weight of heavy, wet snow can also stress roofs and power lines.

Local officials reminded homeowners to shovel safely and avoid overexertion.

Key Facts at a Glance

Public Reaction as Snow Totals Climb

Many residents took to social media to share photos of buried cars and snow-covered backyards.

Others expressed concern about clearing driveways before temperatures drop and snow hardens.

“It’s beautiful, but it’s a lot,” one Long Island resident said while shoveling outside her home. “We haven’t seen this much in a while.”

In New Jersey, some residents said they were surprised by how quickly totals rose overnight.

Local hardware stores reported increased demand for snow shovels and ice melt as the storm intensified.

What Happens Next

Forecasters expect snowfall to taper off gradually, though light flurries may linger in isolated spots.

Temperatures are forecast to remain below freezing, which could allow icy conditions to persist.

Municipal crews are prioritizing main roadways before moving deeper into residential neighborhoods.

Officials recommend checking local government websites for updated snow emergency rules and parking restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much snow has fallen so far?
Some areas of Long Island and New Jersey have recorded more than 24 inches, with lower totals elsewhere.

2. Are roads safe to drive on?
Main highways are being cleared, but secondary streets may remain snow-covered and slippery.

3. Are schools closed due to the storm?
Several districts announced closures or remote learning days. Check local school communications.

4. Were there power outages?
Scattered outages have been reported due to heavy snow on tree branches and lines.

5. Will more snow fall today?
Most heavy snow has ended, but light flurries may continue in some areas.

6. How long will cleanup take?
Full cleanup, especially in residential neighborhoods, could take several days.

Conclusion

Snow totals continue to climb across Long Island and New Jersey, with some communities surpassing two feet after an intense overnight storm.

Crews remain on the roads, working to restore normal travel and services.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local updates as cleanup progresses and conditions improve.

Further advisories will depend on road conditions and lingering cold temperatures.