Millions of people in the northeastern part of the United States have been warned and told to prepare for Winter Storm Juno. The snowstorm is expected to hit on Monday until Wednesday and is said to be in danger of becoming a full on blizzard.
According to The Weather Channel, the storm would affect New Jersey up to Maine and has the possibility to dump more than two feet of snow. The Major cities of New York, Boston, Portland, Hartford and Providence are expected to experience the severe snowstorm that could halt business and operations in the said areas.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has already declared a state of emergency following advise from weather agencies of the severity of the storm, noted ABC News.
Meanwhile, governors from Massachusetts, New Jersey, Connecticut and Rhode Island have also followed suit, reported The Weather Channel in another article.
"It could be a matter of life and death, and that's not being overly dramatic, so caution is required," said the New York governor.
Winter Storm Juno is expected to bring in more than two feet of snow in its wake, with strong winds that have the potential to become a blizzard.
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has already set precautions in place to avoid casualties and accidents during the snowstorm. "This will most likely be one of the largest blizzards in the history of New York City," said the mayor.
Travel ban on roads have been implemented and all non-emergency drivers are not allowed on the road after 11 p.m. beginning Monday. Schools are also canceled beginning Tuesday.
Around 6,560 flights are affected because of the snowstorm. All planes flying to and from the LaGuardia Airport are already disallowed from entering the area while the John F. Kennedy International Airport have reportedly cancelled numerous flights as well.
Meanwhile, Boston's Logan International Airport has cancelled all flights until Wednesday.
Taking extra precaution, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh has already requested the help of the Department of Public Works to allot 700 pieces of heavy equipment and vehicles to shovel off snow. The department has also prepared 35,000 tons of salt for the expected blizzard, said BostInno.com
In Portland, Maine, travelers are advised from traveling unless absolutely necessary, said The Weather Channel in a separate report.
The city's electric utility firm, Central Maine Power, has prepared staff and equipment in case of emergency while Emera Maine has dispersed crew in significant locations for faster response.
Flights from the Portland International Jetport were canceled until Tuesday.
The snowstorm has also affected events happening in the city. The 46th annual Maine Winter Games by the Special Olympics was canceled for a later date.
Public relations director of The Special Olympics committee, Lisa Bird told in a press statement, "Our athletes' safety is the most important thing to us. We really don't want people traveling in bad weather."
