Governor Kathy Hochul has advised residents across New York to take precautions as a Nor’easter is expected to bring the first significant snowfall of the season starting early Tuesday. Winter Storm Watches and Warnings have been issued for regions including the Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, North Country, Mid-Hudson, and Capital Regions. These areas could see snow totals exceeding seven inches. Other regions such as Western New York, Central New York, Finger Lakes, and parts of the Mid-Hudson are under Winter Weather Advisories with forecasts predicting less than six inches.
The storm is likely to create hazardous driving conditions during both morning and evening commutes on Tuesday. Governor Hochul stated: “While New Yorkers are no strangers to snow, and preparedness is key to staying safe on the roads and at home. Ahead of this snowfall, I’m encouraging New Yorkers to make a plan – stock your car with safety essentials and leave extra time when traveling. State agencies stand ready to assist New Yorkers throughout the storm and our plow crews will be out keeping our roadways safe, but we encourage everyone to be weather aware and closely monitor the forecast.”
Snow accumulations are anticipated statewide with higher amounts in the Mid-Hudson and Capital Regions; some areas in higher elevations like the Catskills could see up to one foot of snow. Temperatures are expected near freezing.
Authorities remind residents not only to prepare for snow but also for cold-related risks such as frostbite or hypothermia. The Department of Health offers tips on protecting against cold weather injuries as well as information about carbon monoxide poisoning prevention and proper generator use. Safe winter driving guidance is also available from state agencies.
The Department of Labor recommends that employers limit outdoor work during extreme cold, provide frequent breaks in warm spaces, ensure access to drinking water, avoid caffeine consumption while working outside, and wear appropriate protective clothing.
Weather alerts continue from the National Weather Service (alerts.weather.gov), which provides up-to-date warnings across affected regions. Residents can enable government emergency alerts on their mobile devices or sign up for local notifications by texting their county or borough name to 333111.
State agencies have activated emergency protocols:
– The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services remains in contact with local officials and stands ready with emergency response assets.
– The Department of Transportation has 3,506 operators statewide prepared for plowing operations; additional staff are being deployed where needed.
– Towing services will support operations along key highways such as I-84 and I-684.
– Real-time travel information is available at www.511NY.org or via its mobile site m.511ny.org.
– The Thruway Authority has 685 personnel prepared with equipment including plow trucks and salt supplies; updates are provided through its app and social media channels.
– Utilities across New York have approximately 5,500 workers ready for damage assessment and restoration efforts.
– State Police are coordinating regionally with other agencies for public safety response.
– The Department of Environmental Conservation advises best practices for snow removal to prevent flooding or pollution issues related to improper disposal.
Outdoor recreationists should exercise caution in backcountry areas like the Adirondacks or Catskills due to variable trail conditions from snow or ice; hikers can find updates on dedicated information webpages.
New York State Park Police are monitoring parks’ status during this period; visitors should check park websites or apps before visiting.
Safety recommendations include avoiding unnecessary travel if possible during storms, preparing vehicles with survival gear such as blankets or tire chains, ensuring communications devices are charged while traveling, clearing vehicles of ice/snow before driving, maintaining distance between cars—and especially behind snowplows—since these operate below posted speed limits for safety reasons.
Motorists should avoid passing active snowplows due to limited visibility around these vehicles; remaining behind them ensures safer passage on treated roadways.
