Meteorologists are predicting a major snowstorm to blast the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions on Friday and Saturday, which is expected to have detrimental effects on travel and business.

The storm is expected to drop 1-2 feet of snow from the Appalachians across the Mid-Atlantic and toward New York, with blizzard warnings in the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area. According to weather reports, this storm could shut down airports and highways, with snowfall lasting as long as 24 hours in some areas.

Parts of Missouri, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia and North Carolina can expect ice accumulations from the winter storm that the Weather Chanel has dubbed “Jonas”.

Residents in these areas are being warned of the potential dangers of this storm and are being asked to prepare for the brutal weather by winterizing “go bags” with blankets and gloves and adding battery operated radios to their emergency supply kits.

In Washington, Mayor Muriel Bowser tweeted that more than 2,000 residents have joined the city’s Resident Snow Team to help elderly and disabled neighbors shovel out after the storm.

“Right now is a good time for basic preparations,” said weather service meteorologist Mitchell Gaines of the Mount Holly, N.J., office. “Get some provisions in case the power goes out. Make sure the car is gassed up. Have a plan ready in case a big system does hit with a fairly large impact.”