Staten Island's Chilly Surprise: What's Behind the Sudden Cold Snap?

Staten Island is bracing for a sudden temperature drop, all thanks to a cold front sweeping in from the Great Lakes. Earlier in the week, weather models hinted at a potential coastal storm, but those predictions have faded. Instead, a cold front is taking center stage, bringing snow and a significant chill to the area. The weather rollercoaster begins Wednesday night, with cloudy skies and occasional drizzle. Temperatures will hover around 34 degrees, setting the stage for a frosty Thursday. Expect a mix of rain and snow in the morning, with highs barely reaching 35 degrees. As the day progresses, winds will pick up, making it feel even colder. By Thursday evening, temperatures will dip below freezing, possibly bringing a light dusting of snow. The real shock comes Thursday night, with lows plummeting into the upper teens—one of the coldest nights of the season so far. Strong winds, gusting up to 35 miles per hour, will make it feel even more brutal.Black ice could be a hazard Thursday night and early Friday morning, especially in areas with standing water. While winds will help dry most surfaces, poorly drained spots might freeze over, creating slippery conditions. The weather drama continues on Saturday, with another quick-moving system bringing a chance of rain or snow showers in the afternoon. Temperatures will be warmer, with highs around 43 degrees, but the exact type of precipitation will depend on the timing and temperature. The rest of the long holiday weekend looks calm and dry, with no precipitation expected on Sunday or Monday. Martin Luther King Day will be a mix of clouds and sunshine, with highs around 36 degrees. Despite the recent cold snap, meteorologists clarify that these weather events are not major coastal storms or nor’easters. Just a series of cold fronts and quick-moving systems passing through the region.