The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning until 7 p.m. Monday for Sullivan and Ultser Counties in New York, joining Orange County and the rest of the lower Hudson Valley. In Pennsylvania, Pike and southern Wayne counties have been upgraded to a Blizzard Warning.
Blizzard conditions are expected, with total snow accumulations between 7 and 16 inches and wind gusts as high as 45 mph. Forecasters warn that visibility may drop below a quarter mile due to falling and blowing snow, creating whiteout conditions that could make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening.
Even when steady snowfall tapers, strong winds could loft freshly fallen snow, reducing visibility and creating significant drifting — especially in higher elevations and open areas across The Catskills and The Poconos.
The heaviest snowfall is still expected late tonight through Monday morning. Winds will increase overnight, with peak gusts near 45 mph possible, particularly at higher elevations.
Officials warn that hazardous conditions could impact both the Monday morning and evening commutes. Gusty winds may also bring down tree limbs.
Residents are being urged to restrict travel to emergencies only. Anyone who must travel should carry a winter survival kit and be prepared for rapidly deteriorating conditions. If stranded, authorities advise staying with your vehicle.
In New York, motorists can check the latest road conditions by calling 511. In Pennsylvania, the Department of Transportation and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission are urging drivers to heed travel restrictions and delay unnecessary trips. Road and traffic updates are available at 511PA.com.
Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for 20 counties across New York, including several in the Catskills and the Hudson Valley.
The declaration allows state agencies to mobilize resources and coordinate emergency response ahead of what forecasters say could bring near-blizzard conditions to parts of eastern and southeastern New York.
Counties under the emergency order include Sullivan, Ulster, Dutchess and Orange in the Mid-Hudson region.
Hochul said the state has activated members of the New York National Guard and pre-positioned equipment, including snowplows and utility crews, to assist local governments
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