First snowfall of the season causes fatal crashes and hundreds of accidents on Long Island, New York
At least two people were reported dead in traffic crashes as a powerful winter storm dropped up to 20 cm (8 inches) of snow across parts of Long Island, New York, including Nassau and Suffolk counties, on December 14, 2025, creating dangerous travel conditions. Suffolk County Police reported approximately 200 vehicle collisions across the island as the storm moved through the region.
Heavy snow from December 13--14, 2025 winter storm in New York. Credit: NYSDOT
The winter storm brought the first measurable snowfall of the season to Long Island, New York, late on December 13 and continued into the early hours of December 14.
The highest accumulations reached about 20 cm (8 inches) in eastern Suffolk County, while central Long Island recorded around 15 cm (6 inches). Snowfall began as light flurries in the evening and intensified overnight as temperatures dropped below freezing, leaving untreated surfaces icy and hazardous.
Suffolk County Police reported approximately 200 vehicle collisions across the island. The Southern State Parkway, Sunrise Highway, and the Long Island Expressway experienced multiple pileups as visibility fell and drivers lost control on slick pavement.
Two fatalities were confirmed in separate crashes amid heavy snow and dangerous travel conditions in the region. A 20-year-old man died after his vehicle left the road and struck a tree in Massapequa early on December 14.
About an hour later, New York State Police arrested 35-year-old Deodat Ramotar after he crashed his Hyundai Sonata near Exit 13 on the Southern State Parkway. Two of the three people who were sitting in the backseat of the car were taken to the hospital. Police say the third passenger died at the scene.
Highway crews operated overnight to clear snow and restore safer driving conditions, though freezing temperatures limited the effectiveness of salt treatments. Police urged residents to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid unnecessary travel until road surfaces were fully cleared.
References:
1 Long Island’s first snowfall triggers fatal crashes and hundreds of accidents – News 12 Long Island – December 15, 2025
2 Public Information Statement – NWS – December 14, 2025
I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.
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