Hudson Valley residents are being urged to prepare for hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages as two winter storm systems target the region this weekend.

The first storm is expected to hit early Friday (February 20), dumping around an inch of snow before transitioning to rain, according to local forecasters. The greatest threat comes later in the afternoon and evening when black ice and slippery conditions are expected to develop across the region.

The National Weather Service warns that roads could glaze over quickly Friday evening throughout Dutchess, Ulster and Orange counties. Up to a quarter inch of ice is possible on local roads. Officials caution that even a thin layer of ice can turn roadways into a skating rink, creating dangerous travel conditions for the Friday afternoon commute and raising the risk of power outages.

Governor Kathy Hochul said the state is closely monitoring both storms and preparing crews across the region. "Warmer days are just around the corner, but winter weather isn't gone yet," Hochul said in a statement. "Be sure to travel smart and leave yourself ample time to get to where you're going."

Hundreds of plows and salt trucks are already being deployed, and local departments of transportation will remain staffed around the clock. The New York State Thruway Authority has its operators on standby with more than 100,000 tons of salt ready to deploy. The authority has nearly 700 operators and supervisors prepared to respond, along with more than 300 plow trucks.

Drivers are being reminded to stay behind the plows, since the safest place to be is right on the freshly treated roadway. Snowplows typically travel about 35 miles per hour during storms, and officials reminded motorists not to pass working plows.

Emergency managers say they're keeping an eye on a second storm expected to roll through the Hudson Valley late Sunday into early Monday. That system could bring gusty winds and several inches of snow to downstate areas, including the mid-Hudson region, although the exact track remains uncertain.

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services said its emergency operations center is in contact with local governments and prepared to deploy resources if needed. The state Department of Transportation has thousands of plow operators and supervisors on standby, with more than 1,600 large plow trucks and other snow-fighting equipment ready statewide.

Utility companies across the region have about 5,500 workers available statewide to assess damage and restore power if outages occur, according to the state Department of Public Service. Officials urged residents to stay clear of downed power lines, treat all wires as live and report outages directly to their utility providers.

Authorities said anyone who must travel should keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, including blankets, a flashlight, extra clothing and food. Drivers should clear snow and ice from their vehicles, maintain safe distances and adjust speeds to match road conditions.

Tune to NewsRadio 1450 1370 98.5 WKIP for the latest weather updates across the Hudson Valley.