The National Weather Service has upgraded Orange County from a Winter Weather Advisory to a Winter Storm Warning. The change comes due to the increased snowfall totals.
Don’t let the current 55 degree temperature fool you.
This is the first time during the 2021-2022 winter season that a warning has been issued for Orange County. All previous alerts issued this season were only advisories.
The new forecast now calls for 4-7″ of snow with wind gusts up to 45 mph. The warning is in effect from 6am to 7pm on Saturday. The previously issued advisory originally called for 2-4″ of snow with 35 mph gusts, effective during the same times.
Earlier this week, the region saw temperatures in the upper 60s, thunderstorms, a high wind event, freezing temperatures, and a snow storm – all within a three day span.
Now, as March comes in like a lion, prepare for more snow before you “spring ahead” and set your clocks ahead on Saturday night.
The National Weather Service also issued Winter Storm Warnings for Sullivan and western Ulster Counties, and Winter Weather Advisories for eastern Ulster and western Dutchess Counties.
For eastern Ulster and western Dutchess Counties, NWS forecasts 2-6″ of snow with 45 mph winds from 7am to 7pm on Saturday.
For western Ulster County, the NWS forecasts 5-9″ of snow with wind gusts to 40 mph. Travel is expected to become difficult due to blowing snow and poor visibility. The warning lasts throughout the day Saturday.
Sullivan County is expected to get hit the hardest. The NWS warns snowfall totals will reach 7-12″ with wind gusts to 40 mph. Snowfall rates could reach 1-3″ per hour at times. Heavy snowfall rates, blowing snow, and poor visibility could produce dangerous travel conditions. The warning is in effect from 1am-7pm Saturday.
