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The Hudson Valley is bracing for what could be the most significant snowstorm in years, with forecasters predicting up to 18 inches of snow in some areas starting this Sunday.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the entire Hudson Valley region, with different start times depending on location. For Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties, the watch begins at 3 a.m. Sunday and continues until 6 p.m. Monday, with predictions of 8 to 14 inches of snow.
Northern counties including Dutchess, Ulster, Sullivan, Columbia, and Greene could see even heavier accumulations of 12 to 18 inches, with the eastern Catskills and Mid-Hudson Valley expected to receive the highest totals. The Winter Storm Watch for these areas runs from 7 a.m. Sunday through 7 p.m. Monday.
"Snowfall rates may exceed one inch per hour at times, especially on Sunday night," warns the National Weather Service.
This storm system is part of a massive weather event sweeping across much of the United States. NBC New York reports that winter storm watches and warnings stretch from Arizona to West Virginia, with significant impacts expected nationwide.
Before the snow arrives, residents should prepare for bitter cold temperatures. Wind chills in the single digits are expected Saturday and Sunday, potentially dropping below zero each night.
The National Weather Service is advising residents to delay travel from Sunday to Monday if possible. NOAA describes this as "an unusually large and severe winter storm" and warns that "the combination of significant snow and ice accumulations and frigid weather could cause power outages and icy roads to linger longer than usual."
For those who must travel, officials recommend extreme caution and suggest carrying a winter storm kit including tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water, and a first aid kit.
Residents are encouraged to stock up on several days' worth of food, water, medications, and other necessities for family members and pets. The latest alerts and forecasts can be heard on NewsRadio 1450 1370 98.5 WKIP.