How much snow will shut down MTA's subway system?

NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) -- The winter months could bring snow, sleet, and even blizzards to New York City, putting a possible strain on the MTA subway system.

The MTA predicts that over 12 inches of snow or blizzard conditions could cause "significant service suspensions" or a full system shutdown. However, before that, there are several contingency plans in place for winter weather and extreme snowfall.

The agency provided a rundown of what service to expect based on the weather:

• Storm warning: Regular service.
• 1-7 inches of snow: Regular service. You might see salt and sand on platforms.
• 8-12 inches of snow: Reduced service, especially on express tracks.
• 12+ inches of snow, or blizzard conditions: Significant service suspensions or a full system shutdown are likely. You should only travel if it’s essential.
• Subzero temperatures, without precipitation: Regular or reduced service. Some express service might be suspended, depending on where we park trains to keep them out of the elements.
• Ice, sleet, freezing rain: Regular or reduced service. Some express service might be suspended, depending on where we park trains to keep them out of the elements.

The MTA also has pre-storm preparations including attaching scraper shoes to trains, prepping snow throwers, which work as snowblowers on the front of the train, and more.

The likelihood of a full system shutdown is extremely low. It has only happened once in the 119-year history of the city’s subway system, nine years ago. However, during a citywide shutdown, while passengers will not be allowed on the trains, they will still run to combat snow and ice conditions.