Blizzard Warning Issued for Litchfield, Dutchess, and Ulster Counties; Up to 18 Inches of Snow Forecast

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Albany, NY, has issued a Blizzard Warning for portions of northwest Connecticut and eastern New York. This warning is in effect from 4:00 PM EST Sunday, February 22, through 7:00 PM EST Monday, February 23.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Northwest Connecticut: Northern and Southern Litchfield County.
• Eastern New York: Western and Eastern Ulster County, and Western and Eastern Dutchess County.

Expected Conditions

A powerful nor’easter will impact the region, bringing the following hazards:

• Snow Accumulation: Total snow accumulations are expected to range between 12 and 18 inches. Higher snowfall amounts are favored across the higher elevations and the southern portions of the affected counties.
• Snowfall Rates: Snowfall rates may reach up to 2 inches per hour at times late tonight into early Monday morning.
• Wind Speeds: Winds are forecast to gust as high as 50 mph, which could bring down tree limbs and power lines.
• Visibility: Visibility is expected to drop as low as 1/4 mile due to heavy snow and blowing/drifting snowfall.

Timeline

The Blizzard Warning begins at 4:00 PM EST today, Sunday, February 22. The most dangerous conditions are expected to impact both the Monday morning and Monday evening commutes. The warning is scheduled to expire at 7:00 PM EST on Monday, February 23.

What You Should Do

Travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, ensure you have a winter survival kit with you in your vehicle. If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle. Residents should prepare for difficult to impossible travel conditions and potential power outages.