A significant winter storm is set to hit New York's Capital Region this weekend, with forecasters predicting up to 18 inches of snow in what could be the area's largest snowfall in nearly two years.

The National Weather Service in Albany has issued a Winter Storm Watch for all of eastern New York and western New England, effective from 7 a.m. Sunday through 7 p.m. Monday. The storm is expected to bring heavy snow accumulations between 12 and 18 inches across the region.

"An impactful long-duration winter storm is expected Sunday into Monday. Snowfall rates may exceed one inch per hour at times, especially Sunday night," according to the National Weather Service. The highest snowfall amounts are anticipated across the eastern Catskills, Mid Hudson Valley, and southwestern New England.

The approaching storm has prompted Governor Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency on Friday. During a news conference in Albany, Hochul warned that the state was expected to see "the most dangerous cold we've seen in years" and urged New Yorkers to prepare accordingly. She has authorized state employees to work remotely on Monday and encouraged private employers to follow suit.

"Be ready," Hochul said. "Let's just get through this weekend safely and live to tell stories about it afterward," as reported by the Times Union.

Unlike the wet, heavy snow that caused widespread power outages in March 2023, meteorologists predict this storm will bring light, fluffy snow due to the frigid temperatures expected throughout the weekend. Lows are forecast to drop below zero Friday night, with temperatures remaining in the single digits to teens during the storm.

Albany Mayor Dorcey Applyrs announced the city is preparing for as much as 18 inches of snow and temperatures as low as 25 degrees below zero. Office of General Services Commissioner Sergio Panunzio confirmed that 100% of the city's snowplow fleet would be operational and fully staffed beginning at 7 a.m. Sunday, with contractors also assisting in snow removal efforts.

Travel conditions are expected to be hazardous, particularly during the Monday morning and evening commutes. The extreme cold could impact traditional road treatment methods like salt application, further complicating travel. Authorities advise motorists to consider delaying travel if possible and to use extreme caution if driving is absolutely necessary.

The Capital District Transit Authority plans to maintain a full schedule during the storm, though service curtailments may occur if conditions worsen. CDTA CEO Frank Annicaro also noted that buses would transport unhoused individuals to shelters free of charge during the severe weather.

Weather experts recommend that residents prepare emergency supplies, including flashlights, food, and water, and limit outdoor exposure during the storm's peak and the extreme cold that follows.

Christa Cooper