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Governor Andrew M. Cuomo updated New Yorkers Thursday on the impending weather systems that are forecasted to result in a significant snowfall for the majority of the state, as well as the state's preparations. The first of two storm systems will spread across the State on Thursday evening, with two to five inches of snow expected through Upstate. Over the weekend, New Yorkers can expect to experience 12 to 24 inches of snow during a second storm system. The Governor yesterday activated the State Emergency Operations Center to enhanced monitoring mode, and assets are prepared to be deployed to keep roads and communities safe.

 "The forecasts continue to show New York is set to receive a significant snowfall over the next several days and it is imperative that New Yorkers stay informed and take every precaution before these storms hit," Cuomo said. "We are monitoring these storms closely and are ready to deploy significant state resources and personnel so that we can quickly respond to any community that needs help."

Beginning Thursday afternoon, the first of two storm systems will move into the Western New York and Finger Lakes regions before spreading across the entire State during the evening hours. A general two to five inches of snow can be expected throughout much of Upstate, while the Mid-Hudson Valley, New York City and Long Island regions should expect a wintry mix that transitions to rain as time progresses. By Friday morning, the precipitation will begin tailing off from west to east.

Following a brief lull in weather on Friday, New Yorkers should expect a general 12 to 24 inches of snowfall throughout Upstate New York during the following 36 hours. The system will develop and move west to east on Saturday throughout Upstate, especially during afternoon and evening hours. The time period between Saturday evening and Sunday morning is currently being forecasted as having the highest potential for the heaviest snowfall, with rates expected to reach one to two inches per hour. Some sleet and freezing rain could also mix in late Saturday night into early Sunday for portions of Mid-Hudson Region. Northwest winds will increase on Sunday as frigid, Arctic air overtakes the area. In addition to causing areas of blowing and drifting snow, dangerously cold wind chills in the teens to 20s below zero are possible through Monday.

In the lower Mid-Hudson Valley, New York City and Long Island regions, the storm will move in Saturday evening into Sunday and is expected to result in two to three inches of snow. Light snow is expected around 5 p.m. Saturday afternoon. There is also a chance of freezing rain on Sunday morning between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. A change-over to all rain will occur around 8 a.m. Rain will continue through Sunday afternoon before a change-over to snow, which will taper off around 8 p.m. There is a chance of a flash freeze on Sunday evening as temperatures plummet. Wind chill values between zero and negative five with temperatures in the teens Sunday into Monday.

New Yorkers should pay close attention to their local weather reports to stay updated with the latest information. Additionally, the National Weather Service has already issued, or pre-scheduled, weather watches, warnings and advisories for much of the state. For a complete listing of weather watches, warnings, advisories and latest forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website.

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