New York Governor Kathy Hochul has instructed state agencies to prepare for a storm system expected to bring strong winds, rain, thunderstorms, and possible snow in higher elevations from Wednesday into Thursday. Forecasts predict wind gusts of 40-50 mph across much of the state, with isolated areas potentially experiencing gusts up to 70 mph. The strongest storms are anticipated in the Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, Central New York, and Mohawk Valley regions.
Governor Hochul stated: “Our state agencies and thousands of utility workers stand ready to assist New Yorkers as strong-to-severe wind gusts and potential thunderstorms impact much of the state starting Wednesday. I urge all New Yorkers to stay vigilant and remain alert — text your county or borough name to 333111 to get the most up-to-date information sent directly to your phone.”
In response to high wind forecasts, MTA Bridges and Tunnels will ban empty tractor-trailers and tandem trucks from its seven bridges beginning at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, November 5. The restriction is set to last until 4 a.m. on Thursday, November 6. The affected bridges include the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge, Cross Bay Bridge, Henry Hudson Bridge, Marine Parkway Bridge, Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, Throgs Neck Bridge, and Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.
Residents are advised to monitor local weather updates and ensure emergency alerts are enabled on their mobile devices. High wind watches and advisories have been issued for most of the state. Additional weather alerts can be found on the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov.
State agencies have outlined their preparations:
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is coordinating with local partners and has stockpiles ready for deployment if needed.
The Department of Transportation has over 3,400 operators available statewide along with equipment such as large dump trucks and loaders prepared for various response needs. Motorists can access real-time travel information by calling 511 or visiting https://511ny.org/.
The Thruway Authority has more than 670 personnel ready with equipment including dump trucks, loaders, generators, chainsaws, light units and traffic control devices for any necessary detours or closures. Motorists are encouraged to use the Thruway’s free mobile app for live traffic updates or visit https://www.thruway.ny.gov/ for an interactive map showing current road conditions.
Approximately 5,500 utility workers across New York State are prepared for damage assessment and restoration efforts according to the Department of Public Service.
State Police will deploy extra patrols as needed while keeping specialty vehicles ready.
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is monitoring forecasts closely; municipalities are reminded that DEC permits may not be required unless debris removal disturbs stream banks or beds using heavy machinery.
Park visitors should check park status before visiting via parks.ny.gov or through the NY State Parks Explorer app.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is preparing staff across transit services in anticipation of downed trees or power lines affecting operations; customers can sign up for real-time alerts at http://www.mta.info/.
The Port Authority will provide facility-specific travel updates through social media channels and PA Alerts; additional resources like RidePATH offer real-time service notifications.
Authorities remind residents never to drive through flooded roads due to risks posed by fast-moving water—two feet can float a car—and encourage readiness with disaster supplies such as flashlights, radios with batteries, first aid kits and non-perishable food items.
For safety tips related to severe weather preparedness—including how best to handle power outages—residents can visit https://www.dhses.ny.gov/safety.
