Snow Job Overreaction To Imprecise Forecast Hits Biggest Jukebox Market

A shutdown of mass transit and a ban on driving in the New York City region also brought coin-op traffic to a grinding halt. As it turns out, New York City was spared the worst of a predicted snowstorm that swept across the Northeast on Monday and early Tuesday.

About 6" of snow accumulated in the city area. Travel bans were lifted early this morning and transit services are gradually being restored. Heavier snowfall and blizzard conditions, originally predicted for the city, will likely drop more than two feet of snow on eastern Long Island and parts of New England.

Several amusement machine operators serving New York City and surrounding markets told Vending Times that they're expecting a two-day loss of business. "Many places were shut down and coin drop came to a halt," said one operator. "Today will not be much better, as businesses made plans not to open today."

According to Moody Analytics, New York City lost an estimated $200 million in economic activity as a result of snowstorm hype and the decision to shut down the transit system and roads. Planalytics, a firm that advises companies on weather issues, estimated the economic losses for the total Northeast, including New York, Philadelphia and Boston, at $500 million.