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The significant winter storm that is expected to bring heavy snowfall to the Hudson Valley region starting Sunday, has updated snowfall predictions from the National Weather Service, now calling for accumulations of 12 to 18 inches for most areas and up to 24 inches possible in the eastern Catskills.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for the entire region from Sunday morning through Monday evening. The watch will be upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning beginning at 7 p.m. tonight and continuing until 7 a.m. Monday.
"Snowfall rates may exceed one inch per hour at times, especially on Sunday night," the National Weather Service said Friday. The heaviest snow is expected Sunday morning into early Sunday evening.
Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly as the storm intensifies. Roads—particularly bridges and overpasses—will likely become hazardous, with visibility potentially dropping below a quarter mile due to heavy snowfall.
According to the National Weather Service in Albany, the highest snowfall amounts will impact the Mid-Hudson Valley, eastern Catskills, and southwestern New England. Some areas could receive as much as two feet of snow.
Southern parts of the Hudson Valley, including Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties, may see slightly lower accumulations between 8 and 14 inches. The snow might mix with or change to sleet along coastal areas Sunday evening, potentially limiting accumulations.
This winter storm comes on the heels of dangerously cold temperatures. A cold weather advisory remains in effect for the Lower Hudson Valley through 10 a.m. Saturday, with wind chill values potentially reaching -10 degrees.
Officials are strongly advising residents to consider delaying all travel from Sunday into Monday. For those who must travel, the National Weather Service recommends carrying a winter storm kit including tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water, and a first aid kit.
The storm system is expected to affect a massive portion of the country, with the Hudson Valley region positioned to receive some of the heaviest snowfall totals.