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Capital Region residents should prepare for hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages as a significant winter storm moves through the area Friday (February 20).
The system is expected to bring a messy mix of heavy, wet snow transitioning to sleet, freezing rain, and rain across most of the region. Kevin Appleby, a meteorologist with NEWS10 ABC, warns that ice accumulations of up to a quarter of an inch are possible, particularly in areas south and southwest of Albany and within the Catskills. Such ice buildup could make roads treacherous and potentially knock out power lines.
The storm will begin with heavy, wet snow across the entire Capital Region early Friday, with one to three inches expected before the changeover to mixed precipitation. Northern mountain areas, including the Adirondacks and southern Green Mountains, could see up to six inches of snow as colder air persists at higher elevations. Surface temperatures are expected to remain at or just below freezing in many areas even as warmer air moves in aloft, creating ideal conditions for freezing rain and sleet.
The National Weather Service is monitoring this expansive winter storm system affecting a majority of the United States with heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Dangerously cold temperatures will prolong snow and ice impacts throughout the weekend, creating additional hazards.
While Friday's system should move out by early Saturday morning, possibly dropping a final snow shower across northern areas, the weekend won't be entirely quiet. Minor snow showers capable of producing small accumulations are possible both Saturday and Sunday, with temperatures hovering near freezing.
Another storm system could impact the region late Sunday into Monday. Forecasters are tracking a coastal low that currently appears to stay southeast of the area, but any shift northwest could bring accumulating snow to the Capital Region early next week.
Authorities recommend stocking up on essential supplies including food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. Residents should check on neighbors and family members, ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working, and keep generators at least 20 feet from homes if power outages occur.
Tune to NewsRadio 103.1 / 810 WGY for the latest weather updates.