The south shore of Long Island is the worst of both worlds. Southern Nassau and SW Suffolk are highly developed as well and have their own heat island. In addition, they have near zero elevation and right on the warm Altantic. Worst possible combination for consistent snowfall.
north shore elevation between 150-350 feet, much less developed, further north and gets sound enhancement. In marginal storms it makes a massive difference. I do agree that heat island also plays a large role even in the burbs