A powerful late-winter storm is gearing up to impact the U.S. East Coast this weekend, prompting blizzard warnings from the Mid-Atlantic into the Northeast as millions of residents prepare for significant winter weather.
Meteorologists say the storm, expected to arrive Sunday and last into Monday, could bring heavy snowfall, gusty winds, and dangerous travel conditions across a broad swath of the region.
Major Blizzard Warnings Issued
Officials with the National Weather Service have issued blizzard warnings for densely populated areas including:
New York City, marking the first blizzard warning for the city in nearly a decade.
Long Island, southern Connecticut, and coastal communities in New Jersey and Delaware.
In all, more than 14 million people are under blizzard warnings as conditions continue to evolve.
Snowfall and Wind Forecast
Forecasts indicate a wide range of accumulations, with many areas in the Northeast potentially receiving 1 to 2 feet (30–60 cm) of snow, and some locations seeing snowfall rates of 1–2 inches per hour at the storm’s peak.
The storm is likely to begin with rain for coastal areas on Sunday before transitioning to heavy snow late Sunday night. Combined with sustained winds of 25–35 mph (40–56 km/h) and gusts potentially higher, the system could produce blizzard conditions with low visibility, making travel dangerous to impossible at times.
Alongside heavy snow, forecasters are warning of flooding risks in some coastal and low-lying areas, particularly where rain precedes the snow. The strong winds and heavy snow load could also lead to downed tree limbs and power outages, adding to the hazards.
Residents are being urged to take the weekend to prepare clearing snowblowers and shovels, stocking up on food and supplies, and planning for work or travel disruptions early next week.
This storm follows a period of unusually active winter weather in parts of the U.S., including earlier snow and frigid temperatures that affected the Southeast and Northeast in recent weeks.
Forecasters continue to monitor the evolving conditions, and updates are expected as the storm draws closer. Emergency and transportation officials warn residents to follow their local weather updates and advisories as Sunday approaches.
