STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- As the heart of a blizzard set to cripple the New York metro area bears down on Staten Island, both forecasts and conditions continue to change rapidly.
Authorities are urging New Yorkers to stay indoors. Heading into Monday night, here are important storm-related updates meant to help keep you safe and informed.
Mayor Bill de Blasio has banned travel in the city starting at 11 p.m.
Only emergency vehicles will be allowed on city streets after 11 p.m., the mayor announced midday on Monday. Officials said driving during the ban could result in a summons or even arrest.
The ban will be in effect until further notice.
In addition, Gov. Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency Monday afternoon and later issued a travel restriction in several counties in New York State, including the city.
"This is a serious situation," Cuomo said during a press conference. "If you violate this state order, it's a possible misdemeanor, it's fines up to $300, and that will go into effect at 11 o'clock."
MTA and ferry service to shut down at 11 p.m.
Also earlier on Monday, Cuomo announced a full shutdown of all MTA and Port Authority public transit systems. This includes the Staten Island Railway and city buses.
The last ferry will leave St. George Ferry Terminal at 11 p.m., and the final boat from Whitehall will leave no later than 11:30 p.m., according to the city Department of Transportation.
Both agencies have suspended service until further notice.
Staten Island schools -- public and Catholic -- closed on Tuesday
In addition to the NYC public school and Catholic school closings announced for Tuesday, some schools have already planned to stay shuttered Wednesday.
The latest forecasts predict 12-18 inches of snow for Staten Island
According to AccuWeather, Staten Island snow totals for Tuesday will fall between 12 and 18 inches. Blizzard conditions are expected Tuesday morning, with wind gusts over 60 mph possible.
AccuWeather forecasts an end to the snow in the evening hours.
Staten Islanders can track the progress of city plowing efforts online
The Department of Sanitation announced Monday morning that 500 salt spreaders and 1800 plows were deployed to handle the storm. DSNY's new sector plan will be rolled out for the first time; to track progress on your street, visit the PlowNYC website.