Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul appeared on Spectrum News to provide an update on the winter weather affecting Upstate New York. During the interview, she discussed the state’s preparations and concerns as a significant snowstorm is expected to bring up to three feet of snow in some areas by midweek.
Governor Hochul highlighted several key concerns, including the duration and severity of the storm. “Well, we have many concerns. It just seems like Mother Nature is literally piling on the pain being felt by our Bills fans across Western New York and the state. So this is going to be a long duration lake effect snow. The storm is starting tomorrow morning, but we’re very worried about the extreme cold,” she said.
She noted that this event could last for two weeks and warned residents about dangerous travel conditions due to heavy snowfall and high winds that could reach up to 50 miles per hour. “If you can find a way to avoid travel, that’d be fantastic, and just stay home and maybe watch the Sabres games tomorrow afternoon,” Hochul advised.
The governor also explained measures being taken by state agencies to assist with snow removal and emergency response. “It’s all about pre-deploying our DOT equipment and staff. We have 1,600 large plow trucks and medium plow trucks and large loaders and snowblowers, about almost 4,000 supervisors and operators,” she stated. She added that nearly 6,000 utility workers are ready across New York State to respond quickly in case of power outages caused by downed lines during high wind events.
Hochul emphasized safety precautions for residents facing extreme cold or potential power loss: “We have to make sure we’re not getting complacent because extreme cold weather can literally be deadly. So limit your time outdoors… You have to wear multiple layers of clothing.” She recommended preparing vehicles with essentials such as charged cell phones, water, blankets, shovels, or even cat litter for traction if stuck in snow.
The governor concluded by reminding residents not to underestimate each storm’s impact: “Each storm has potential to be very debilitating and devastating. So we always plan for the worst here in the State of New York.”
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