A major winter storm is preparing to make it's trip up the east coast tonight through Sunday morning, and it's impacts will be severe throughout the New York Metro Area. A strong coastal storm is forecast to develop, owing to a phase between the northern and southern jet streams over the Southeast United States. This coastal storm will strengthen rapidly and move north/northwest to just off the New Jersey Coast and south of Long Island by Sunday night. The result, as far as sensible weather is concerned, will be the development of very heavy snow and bands across most if not all of our forecast area. The heaviest snow is forecast to fall later Sunday Night and into the early morning hours of Monday. The snow could be very heavy at times with near white-out conditions and zero visibility. In addition to the heavy snow, the unusually strong and powerful coastal storm will bring the threat of very strong winds. Winds could gust well above 50 miles per hour in some locations, especially along the coast. We ask that you take this storm seriously. This is not your regular garden variety nor'easter. The strength and resulting impact of the system could be far greater than what we have experienced over recent years. Make sure to tie down loose outdoor objects and prepare for any potential power outages. They are not likely, but may happen with the heavy snow and strong winds. We will continue to update this post throughout the evening, and into the early morning hours. Make sure you stay here for the latest news regarding the incoming major winter storm. Also, send us your storm reports by clicking HERE. And be sure to follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Featured Image: Water vapor satellite imagery from