WASHINGTON (TNND) — As a majority of the U.S. braces for a massive snowstorm this weekend, the National Weather Service (NWS) is urging the public to prepare ahead of time.

With heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain in the forecast Friday through Sunday from New Mexico to the East Coast, the agency said it's best to stay home and off the roads, as streets will be slippery and visibility will be low.

"Over 160 million Americans are under winter hazards associated with the impending major winter storm. Disruptive snowfall is likely from the Southern Rockies to the Northeast, including dangerous ice from the ArkLaTex to the southern Mid-Atlantic," NWS said on social media.

But before the snow starts falling, NWS said to make sure you are stocked up on plenty of food and water -- both at home and at work.

"Start preparations now for an impactful and prolonged winter storm and keep up to date with the forecast," NWS noted.

If you have to travel, it's wise to keep vital supplies in our car, including the following items:

• Cell phone charger
• First aid kit
• Jumper cables
• Spare tire
• Flares
• Water and snacks
• Mittens, hats, boots, as well as warm clothing
• Snow shovel and brush
• Blankets
• Tow rope
• Sand or kitty litter
• Full tank of gas

The agency advised the public to make sure pets and farm animals have the essentials they will need during the storm, as well.

NOAA said it's important to check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors ahead of the storm. It also said it is best to have multiple ways to receive warnings about the storm, including weather and news apps.

"Prepare and have a plan to stay warm," NWS said.

As for when the storm hits, NOAA said to check on family and neighbors, properly ventilate emergency heat sources, keep generators at least 20 feets from your home, and "take it easy" when shoveling.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem said to have at least three days of food, water, and essential medications on hand before the storm hits.

Noem also said DHS is working with authorities across the nation, along with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to monitor and prepare for the storm.

"Please prepare and take precautions in the event of power outages, pipe-bursts, road closures, airport delays, flight cancellations, and freezing temperatures," Noem said in statement she posted on social media.

"Federal emergency management is positioning to effectively respond to these conditions, and is prepared to provide aid across the affected areas," the statement noted. "Stay safe and prepare."

The massive storm system is expected to bring a crippling ice storm from Texas through parts of the South, potentially around a foot of snow from Oklahoma through Washington, D.C., as well as New York and Boston, before it lands a final punch of bitterly cold air that could drop wind chills to mius-50 degrees Fahrenheit in parts of Minnesota and North Dakota.

Forecasters are warning the damage, especially in areas that get a large amount of ice, could rival a hurricane. They warn the storm could bring catastrophic damage and widespread power outages.

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EDITOR'S NOTE: The Associated Press contributed to this report.