A period of accumulating snow followed by dangerously cold temperatures is expected to impact much of the region from Saturday night through early next week, according to the National Weather Service.

Winter Weather Advisories have been issued for large portions of the area as a storm system is forecast to bring widespread snowfall late tonight into Sunday morning.

Forecasters are calling for 1 to 4 inches of snow across most of the region, with locally higher amounts of 4 to 5 inches possible near the I-95 corridor and into southern New Jersey. Snowfall rates could briefly reach one inch per hour early Sunday morning, creating hazardous travel conditions.

Precipitation may begin as rain or a rain-snow mix near and southeast of I-95, especially closer to the coast, before transitioning to all snow.

Following the snowfall, bitterly cold air is expected to settle over the region beginning Sunday night and continuing through at least Tuesday morning. Wind chills are forecast to drop into the single digits, with below-zero values possible in the Poconos. Prolonged exposure could lead to hypothermia or frostbite, and some impacts to infrastructure are possible as temperatures remain below freezing through Monday.

Residents are advised to use caution while traveling, dress appropriately for extreme cold, and take necessary precautions to protect vulnerable individuals and property.

Mayor Coles issued the following statement to TLS: “We are expecting our first significant snow of the year Saturday night. I am asking everyone to make sure their garbage cans are all removed from the street and to park cars in driveways and off street if possible. Public Works always plans for these storms to help minimize inconvenience and maximize our safety. Please keep an eye out for any elderly or handicapped neighbors and be very careful when clearing snow from your sidewalks and driveways.”

Lakewood Police Chief Greg Meyer gave TLS the following statement: “Avoid unnecessary travel during the height of the storm. Be alert for plow trucks, and if possible, park off of the streets to allow for snow removal. Park in municipal lots. Slow down and be safe.”