National Weather Service: 4 inches of snow per hour possible

Stay tuned here for all the weather news as this storm unfolds.

Now, Washington D.C., and much of the Northeast are about to get walloped with heavy snows from a major winter storm Monday and Tuesday, the National Weather Service says. The heaviest snow and highest winds are expected through the morning and early afternoon tomorrow. Motorists, especially tractor trailers, should be prepared for road closures across the state.

Temperatures will be in the upper 30s. The big shift is allowing warm ocean air to flow into the atmosphere, resulting in more rain and sleet than snow. Information on the city’s website from Chris Kelly, streets superintendent, said Sunday’s storm likely would impact the Monday morning commute and urged drivers to plan for extra time.

The full moon also raises the potential for coastal flooding.

Snowfall could be one inch per hour with morning commutes on Tuesday and Wednesday expected to be hard, the service says. High tide on the back bays, along the Delware Bay and along Raritan Bay occurs later than the high tide on the oceanfront.

The last blizzard that dumped more than 2 feet on parts of the state was on January 27, 2015. Wave action is forecast to result in significant beach erosion.

Less than two weeks ago, the nation’s capital was enjoying 80-degree temperatures. For some parts of the country, this winter might not have been as cold as past years, but this storm could pack one last punch.

Although people are asked not to drive Tuesday, Grant warned that any drivers should reduce their speed and leave plenty of room between vehicles. The water may be deeper than you think it is.

As of 6 a.m., the Long Island Rail Road was still offering normal weekday schedule, with some trains being delayed by up to 20 minutes because of equipment problems, late-arriving connections and switching problems outside the East River tunnels. Strong winds will lead to additional power outages.* WINDS.Northeast 20 to 35 miles per hour with gusts up to 55 miles per hour.* VISIBILITIES.One half mile or less at times.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS.A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow are expected. The storm will come to an end overnight into early Wednesday morning. Downed trees and limbs are possible as well as power lines. Travel will be hard, especially for high-profile vehicles. The AccuWeather forecast calls for ice between 5 and 6 p.m.