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Snow squall warnings issued across Tri-State Area. Here's an early look at snow totals.

First Alert Weather: Snow squall sightings around Tri-State Area
First Alert Weather: Snow squall sightings around Tri-State Area 03:20

NEW YORK -- A wintry mix of rain and snow fell across the New York City area Thursday morning, prompting snow squall warnings throughout the region. 

A snow squall warning was issued for Fairfield County, Connecticut until 12:30 p.m. Earlier warnings were also issued for parts of New York and New Jersey north and west of the city.

Officials in New York City warned Flushing, Jamaica and Mott Haven, Queens could be impacted, and there were reports of squalls in South Brunswick and Berkley Heights, New Jersey, along with Danbury, Connecticut.    

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CBS News New York

A winter weather advisory is also in place for Sullivan and Ulster counties, and there's a wind advisory for most of the area. 

It's a First Alert Weather Day, as our weather team tracks the conditions. Here's a look at the system's timing and totals.

What is a snow squall?

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CBS News New York

A snow squall is a sudden, intense burst of snow that comes on quickly and doesn't last long - usually just 30 minutes to an hour. It's often accompanied by strong winds, which can cause visibility to drop sharply, making it difficult to see or drive. 

Unlike a regular snowstorm, which can go on for hours, a snow squall can happen in a flash, and it's especially dangerous because it can catch people off guard. The combination of heavy snow and gusty winds can make roads slippery and create whiteout conditions.

A snow squall warning is typically issued when the squall is expected to hit within the next 30 minutes to an hour. If you're in an area under a snow squall warning, it's a good idea to be prepared for quick changes in weather, slow down on the roads and avoid traveling if possible until the squall passes.

Rain and wind around NYC, snow north & west

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CBS News New York

There isn't a lot of snow accumulation in and around the city, as temperatures were not in the ideal range for any snow to stick overnight. The exception being the heavier band of snow that pushed through early this morning, but that was short lived. 

Despite looking like winter out there, still no snow, officially, for Central Park. We need to receive at least a 10th of an inch in order for that to happen. 

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CBS News New York

However, the Catskill area has already picked up about 5" inches of snow; Danbury, CT picked up about 2.5"; and Brooksville, NJ picked up about 2". 

Even across Long Island, they picked up anywhere from about a trace to 1", but with temperatures as warm as they are, much of it will continue to melt.

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CBS News New York

Remember, all of this is part of a clipper system that does have a ton of moisture, but it does have enough energy support a few snow showers throughout the day. And behind it, some serious cold across parts of the Midwest where we're seeing below zero wind chills this morning.

Regarding our area, afternoon temperatures will be in the 30s, but you'll have to dress for the 20s because of those gusty winds. That said, think layers, especially tomorrow, as wind chills will be stuck in the teens and 20s across the area

Thankfully, dry weather is expected this weekend. And although it starts off cold, we do recover on Sunday with highs in the upper 40s.

Live radar around Tri-State Area

Stick with our First Alert Weather team for the latest forecast, live radar and weather alerts.

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