Long Island weather: Sunshine comes out after morning snow

The sun was shining on Long Island Wednesday afternoon after snow flurries that left more powder than expected in the morning.

Forecasters had originally predicted just a half inch overnight but that turned into a heavier snowfall.

More than 2 inches of fresh snow were reported in Suffolk and Nassau counties, including Lindenhurst, Farmingdale and Syosset. The heaviest snow was reported as just under 3 inches in Centereach and Stony Brook, according to the National Weather Service.

The cold frontal system that arrived over Long Island was stronger than expected Wednesday, said National Weather Service meteorologist Joe Pollina.

"It’s just coming in a little stronger than expected," Pollina said of the latest barrage. 

The frontal system arrived in the wake of the nor'easter that slammed Long Island with an unprecedented 31 inches of snow.

Rising temperatures, though, and the sun were helping melt the new powder away. Wednesday's high temperature is expected to be 40 degrees. Highs well above freezing are predicted for all week.

By noon, Kennedy Airport was reporting more than 240 delays and more than 40 cancellations Wednesday. LaGuardia had nearly 40 cancellations and more than 280 delays. 

There were no cancellations at MacArthur Airport and minimal delays.

Fire departments were also urging residents to dig out fire hydrants following the blizzard and Wednesday's snow. Firefighters said to clear a 3-foot radius around hydrants to allow crews access to hose valves.

Nassau County and Plainview firefighters battled a house fire Wednesday morning that displaced four adults and three children. Nassau fire marshals said one hydrant near the home was cleared and another had to be dug out, but it did not hinder any firefighting efforts. 

Long Island may receive a slight break from the snow as homeowners, businesses and schools continue to dig out.

Thursday's forecast is calling for less snow than initially predicted, with about 25 to 30% chance of snow overnight Thursday and sunshine appearing at some point. It could come with "maybe a dusting," Pollina said. 

Friday will see mostly sunny skies a high near 37. Saturday will be mostly sunny with a high near 44, forecasters said, and Sunday will be partly sunny, with a high approaching 40, the service said.

There's a chance of more snow on Monday, when temperatures are expected to plummet and highs are not expected to break the 20s.