New York and the broader tri-state area are preparing for what forecasters say could be the most significant snowstorm to hit the region since January 2016. Snow is expected to begin around 6 a.m. local time and continue through 6 p.m. Monday, with widespread accumulations of 12 to 18 inches forecast across much of the area.

Blizzard warnings have been issued across New York City and parts of the coastal Northeast.

Heavy and wet snow is expected, accompanied by wind gusts exceeding 50 miles per hour from Sunday night into Monday morning, with some gusts reaching up to 55 miles per hour.

Authorities warn that the combination of strong winds and dense snowfall could lead to whiteout conditions, hazardous travel, and possible road closures.

The weight of the snow and high winds may bring down trees and power lines, raising concerns about power outages.

Officials have also issued coastal flood warnings, with projections of coastal flooding between 2.5 and 3 feet during high tide.

The storm is expected to disrupt transportation across the region, potentially affecting road, rail and air travel.

Residents are being advised of the risk of dangerous or impassable travel conditions.

If snowfall totals reach the upper end of projections, the system would represent the largest snow event for the region since the January 2016 blizzard, which remains the biggest snowstorm on record in New York City.