New York winter storm: New England braces for snow, rain and possible flooding

An unexpected storm brought freezing temperatures to New York and New England on Saturday.

In Maine, the National Weather Service warned that travel conditions could be hazardous due to snow, sleet, rainfall and strong winds. Some areas are expected to receive more than a foot of snow, while others are at risk of flooding.

While parts of the Northeast experienced a mild winter with little snow, New England was treated to a surprising winter storm on Saturday that brought snow, sleet, rain and strong winds.

This chaotic mix creates hazardous travel conditions throughout the region. The National Weather Service is warning drivers to use extra caution, especially in areas with snowy and icy roads.

This storm was not the same for everyone in New England. Ski resorts in western Maine and New Hampshire’s White Mountains are excited about the prospect of up to two feet of new snow and hope to extend their ski seasons.

Rainfall and melting snow have raised concerns about flooding, particularly in southern New Hampshire, Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. The Meteorological Service has issued flood warnings as some rivers are expected to overflow their banks.

Strong winds are also causing problems, with gusts of up to 50 mph expected in New York City. These winds and heavy rain caused flight cancellations at New York area airports.

Even further west, the storm brought more winter weather to California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains. Here, some areas could see up to four feet of snow and wind gusts in excess of 80 mph.