The National Weather Service has issued a warning for an impending winter storm set to strike overnight on Monday, February 12, and persist into Tuesday afternoon, February 13. According to meteorologists, travel during this period could be notably challenging, with hazardous conditions likely to impact Tuesday’s morning commute. AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Matt Rinde underscores the severity of the approaching weather, indicating that colder air will accompany the storm, ushering in more typical February conditions.

Projected Snowfall and Impact

As the storm progresses, precipitation is expected to commence as rain on Monday night before transitioning to a wintry mix just before dawn on Tuesday. Inland regions are likely to experience heavy snowfall, prompting the issuance of a Winter Storm Warning from 1 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday. AccuWeather forecasts widespread snow accumulation, with inland areas such as the Hudson Valley, Catskills, and regions along the New England border in eastern New York, northern Connecticut, and Massachusetts bracing for 6 to 12 inches of snow. Locally, higher amounts of up to 18 inches may occur further north and inland. Surrounding areas are projected to receive 3 to 6 inches of accumulation, while some spots may see 1 to 3 inches.

Precautions and Preparedness Amid the Snowfall

Amidst the storm’s peak, winds could gust up to approximately 30 miles per hour on Tuesday, potentially leading to scattered power outages. AccuWeather Meteorologist Adam Sadvary warns of intense snowfall rates, reaching 1-2 inches per hour and possibly higher in areas expecting the heaviest accumulation. Given these conditions, the National Weather Service advises residents in affected areas to exercise caution and prepare accordingly. For those compelled to travel, it is recommended to carry essential emergency supplies such as flashlights, food, and water in their vehicles.

What Will the Post-Storm Outlook Be Like?

As the storm subsides, Wednesday, February 14, Valentine’s Day, is expected to bring mostly sunny skies with a high temperature ranging from the low to mid-30s. Despite the storm’s departure, residual effects and cleanup efforts may persist, emphasizing the importance of remaining vigilant and heeding safety precautions until conditions stabilize.