School closings are piling up along with snow in the NY/NJ area this morning – with up to 8 inches of snow predicted in some area. Numerous traffic accidents were reported on snow-slickened roads, airports are experiencing delays of several hours, and commuters are being urged not to drive if they can avoid it. The New York City Department of Transportation has suspended alternate side of the street parking rules for the day.

In New York, the National Weather Service forecasted 5 to 8 inches of snow in Putnam, Rockland and northern Westchester counties, and in New York City and Long Island 4-6 inches are predicted. In Monsey, all busing has been canceled – as did many Yeshivos. In NYC many Yeshivos and girls schools were closed as well.

Northern New Jersey may see 3 to 8 inches, while Southern New Jersey are under a winter weather advisory, with 1 to 3 inches of sleet and snow expected. The speed limit along the NJ Turnpike has been reduced to 35 mph, and a Turnpike spokesman urged commuters to stay home Friday if they can. In Lakewood, most schools were closed including The Cheder, and Bais Faiga – due to all busing being canceled. 

In Baltimore, an accumulation of one inch of ice is on the ground, and Cheders and Bais Yackov’s have been closed (YW-MD03).

The bulk of the precipitation will begin to exit the area by the evening, and any rain, freezing rain, or sleet leftover will change to snow when all is said and done with additional light accumulations possible overnight.

YWN urges all readers to please use extra caution while commuting this morning. Additionally, if you are going away for Shabbos – either re-think your plans, or please leave plenty of time for travelling.

Drive carefully, and have a Good Shabbos!-

(NOTE FOR NYC: Although Alternate Side Parking regulations are suspended today for snow removal, all other regulations, including parking meters, remain in effect.)