The monster storm that's been affecting a good portion of the United States is upon us and is changing. The National Weather Service has taken down its Winter Storm Warning and now posted an Ice Warning for Westchester County.

The storm started as snow earlier today, forcing the closure of schools and businesses. Many areas are currently seeing sleet, freezing rain and rain now and that is expected to continue through Wednesday afternoon.

Hazardous travel conditions are expected and the ice is of particular concern, officials say, because the weight could take down trees and power lines.

Utility companies remind customers that it's a good idea to have an emergency kit in place.   

They suggest people set aside battery operated flashlights, candles, matches, a battery-operated or solar-powered radio, extra water, warm blankets and clothing, canned foods and foods that don't require refrigeration in the event of a prolonged outage.