NYC issues winter’s first ‘snow alert’ despite no actual snow

The winter weather is finally here.

The city’s Department of Sanitation has issued a “snow alert” for Monday starting at 8 p.m. in order for the agency to prepare its equipment and personnel in case snow decides to fall on the city.

New York City is expected to get a wintry mix of rain and sleet starting Monday night — the first taste of winter for the city after hitting record-breaking temperatures on Christmas Eve in the low 70s.

However, according to the National Weather Service, no actual snow is expected to make its way into New York City. Any possible snow is forecast for areas north and west of the city, such as Westchester County.

According to the DSNY, the alert is “not a weather forecast,” but indicates “the potential of a snow event.” During this time the agency will load salt spreaders, attach plows, if necessary, prepare tire chains and notify other city agencies and extra personnel as need be.

DSNY — which will continue to monitor the forecast and provide updates — is also working together with the Office of Emergency Management and the Department of Transportation on snow clearing protocol in agreement with each agency’s plan.

Information on winter weather and about the city’s response to any storm can be found by visiting the City’s Severe Weather website.