A blizzard warning is in effect for Long Island and the New York City metro area from 6 a.m. Sunday through 6 p.m. Monday, with heavy snow and damaging winds expected to make travel dangerous, according to the National Weather Service in Upton.

The warning includes northwest Suffolk, northeast Suffolk, southwest Suffolk and southeast Suffolk, as well as Nassau and Queens. Portions of southern Connecticut and Westchester are also included.

The weather service said blizzard conditions are expected, with total snow accumulations between 13 and 18 inches and wind gusts as high as 55 mph. Visibilities may drop below a quarter-mile in falling and blowing snow, with whiteout conditions possible.

“Travel will be treacherous and potentially life-threatening,” the National Weather Service said, noting that the strongest winds and worst blizzard conditions are expected Sunday night into Monday. Snow is expected to move in during the morning and afternoon Sunday.

For Riverhead, the National Weather Service forecast calls for snow likely Sunday, with 1 to 3 inches possible during the day. Conditions are expected to worsen Sunday night, with snow and areas of blowing snow and an additional 6 to 10 inches possible. Snow and blowing snow are expected to continue Monday, with another 4 to 8 inches possible.

The weather service warned that strong winds and the weight of snow on tree limbs may bring down power lines and cause sporadic power outages. Hazardous conditions could affect both the Monday morning and evening commutes.

The National Weather Service said travel should be restricted to emergencies only. Anyone who must travel should carry a winter survival kit and, if stranded, stay with the vehicle. Drivers are urged to check New York state and local Department of Transportation road condition updates before heading out.

In case of an emergency, dial 911.

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Source: RiverheadLOCAL