Cross Bay Boulevard Braces for Winter Weather Advisory Issued

NEW YORK — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Queens, including the Cross Bay Boulevard corridor, beginning Friday, February 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Forecasters predict up to 4 inches of snow accumulation, accompanied by freezing rain, posing significant travel hazards throughout the weekend.

New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) urged residents to prepare for slippery road conditions and potential power outages. They advised against unnecessary travel on Cross Bay Boulevard and other major arteries. The advisory is in effect until Sunday morning.

Preparedness Efforts Underway

The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has mobilized its fleet of salt spreaders and plows in anticipation of the inclement weather. Crews will focus on major routes like Cross Bay Boulevard first, ensuring emergency vehicle access and maintaining essential transportation links.

“Our sanitation workers are ready for this winter storm,” stated DSNY Commissioner Jessica Tisch during a press conference on Thursday. “We have over 700 salt spreaders and 2,000 plows at our disposal. Residents can track our progress using the PlowNYC map.”

The NWS forecast indicates that precipitation will start as snow Friday evening, transitioning to a mix of snow and freezing rain overnight into Saturday. Temperatures are expected to hover around 30 degrees Fahrenheit, creating dangerous icy patches on roads and sidewalks. For the latest weather and traffic updates, consult ABC7 New York.

Con Edison, the local utility provider, has placed extra crews on standby to address any potential power outages caused by ice accumulation on power lines. They remind customers to report outages immediately and stay away from downed wires.

Impact on Cross Bay Boulevard and Community

Cross Bay Boulevard, a critical thoroughfare connecting mainland Queens to the Rockaways, is expected to be particularly affected. Its exposed nature makes it susceptible to strong winds, which can lead to drifting snow and reduced visibility.

Local businesses along the boulevard are preparing for reduced customer traffic over the weekend. Many have adjusted their operating hours or plan to close early Friday. They hope for a quick cleanup to minimize economic disruption.

“Winter weather always slows things down,” said Frank Perone, owner of a deli on Cross Bay Boulevard. “We’ll be here for essentials, but we don’t expect much foot traffic until conditions improve. Safety comes first for our staff and customers.”

Schools in the area have announced contingency plans, with some opting for remote learning days on Friday or Monday, depending on snow accumulation. Parents are advised to check their school district's official communications for specific updates.

Safety Recommendations for Residents

NYCEM strongly advises residents to take several precautions. These include staying indoors if possible, checking on elderly neighbors, and having an emergency kit ready with flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio.

Driving conditions are expected to be hazardous, and residents are urged to use extreme caution if travel is unavoidable. Drivers should maintain extra space between vehicles, reduce speed, and avoid sudden braking or accelerating. Local news often provides critical safety information.

“This is not the weekend for non-essential travel, especially on a busy road like Cross Bay Boulevard,” emphasized NYCEM Commissioner Deanne Criswell. “If you must drive, ensure your vehicle is prepared, and allow ample extra time for your journey.”

Pedestrians are also reminded to be vigilant for black ice and to wear appropriate footwear. Property owners are legally responsible for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their properties within a specified time frame after the snowfall ceases. This helps ensure public safety.

Long-Term Winter Preparedness

The city’s response to this advisory is part of its broader winter preparedness strategy, which involves regular drills and coordination between multiple agencies. These efforts aim to minimize the disruption caused by severe weather events. Historically, Cross Bay Boulevard has faced significant challenges during major snowstorms.

Looking ahead, city officials continue to evaluate and upgrade infrastructure to better withstand winter conditions. This includes investments in more resilient power grids and improved drainage systems to prevent flooding during thaw cycles. Such proactive measures are essential.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring local news channels and official city alerts. The collective effort of city agencies and community members is vital for navigating challenging weather safely and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Winter Weather Advisory

What are the expected conditions under the Winter Weather Advisory? The advisory predicts up to 4 inches of snow accumulation starting Friday evening, February 21, 2026, transitioning to a mix of snow and freezing rain overnight. Temperatures will be around 30 degrees Fahrenheit, creating hazardous icy conditions on roads and sidewalks, including Cross Bay Boulevard.

What measures is the Department of Sanitation taking? DSNY has deployed its full fleet of salt spreaders and plows. They will prioritize major arterial roads like Cross Bay Boulevard for salting and plowing operations. Residents can use the PlowNYC map to track the progress of snow removal efforts in their neighborhoods.

How will this weather impact travel on Cross Bay Boulevard? Travel on Cross Bay Boulevard is expected to be significantly hazardous due to snow and freezing rain, leading to slippery conditions and reduced visibility. NYC Emergency Management advises against non-essential travel. Drivers should exercise extreme caution, reduce speed, and allow extra time if they must be on the road.

What safety precautions should residents take? Residents are advised to stay indoors, check on vulnerable neighbors, and prepare an emergency kit. If going outside, wear appropriate footwear and be aware of black ice. Property owners are responsible for clearing sidewalks adjacent to their properties to prevent slips and falls.

Will there be power outages? Con Edison has extra crews on standby to address potential power outages caused by ice accumulation on power lines. Customers are urged to report any outages immediately to Con Edison and to stay away from any downed power lines, treating them as live and dangerous.