New York Governor Kathy Hochul has provided an update on the state’s preparations for a significant lake effect snow event expected to affect areas east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. The weather system, beginning Sunday and lasting through at least Tuesday night, is forecasted to bring up to five inches of snow to the Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island regions. Heavier snowfall is anticipated for areas off Lake Ontario, including the Tug Hill Plateau, where up to three feet may accumulate. Areas south of Buffalo could see as much as one and a half feet.
Governor Hochul stated: “New York is prepared, and we are urging everyone in the affected regions to take this storm seriously. Heavy lake effect snow, dangerous winds, and bitter cold will make travel hazardous and could lead to power outages. State agencies are mobilized and ready, but the safest choice is to limit travel when possible, make sure you have supplies on hand, check on vulnerable neighbors, and stay informed as conditions continue to change through Tuesday. If you must be out, leave yourself extra travel time and use caution.”
The forecast indicates that northern Oswego, western Lewis, southern Jefferson counties (off Lake Ontario), as well as southern Erie, northern Chautauqua and northern Cattaraugus Counties (off Lake Erie) will likely see the highest snowfall totals. Peak snowfall rates may exceed four inches per hour in some locations. Strong winds combined with heavy snow are expected to create dangerous travel conditions with reduced visibility.
Authorities advise drivers to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm period due to hazardous road conditions caused by blowing snow and freezing temperatures that could pose risks for stranded motorists. The state also reminds residents about Code Blue regulations requiring local social services districts to provide shelter access when temperatures or wind chills fall below 32 degrees.
State agencies have mobilized resources ahead of the storm:
– The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services has emergency management staff coordinating with local counterparts.
– The Department of Transportation has over 3,600 supervisors/operators ready statewide along with large fleets of plows and loaders; all facilities will operate around-the-clock during the event.
– The Thruway Authority has nearly 700 operators/supervisors available with hundreds of plow trucks; real-time traffic information can be accessed via its mobile app or www.511NY.org.
– Utilities across New York have approximately 5,500 workers prepared for assessment and restoration efforts should outages occur.
– State Police are coordinating with multiple agencies for emergency response readiness.
– Environmental Conservation officials remind those removing snow not to dispose it in waterways due to flood risk from ice dams.
Officials recommend that New Yorkers monitor weather updates from the National Weather Service (https://www.weather.gov/) for current alerts. Residents can sign up for real-time weather notifications by texting their county or borough name to 333111.
Winter safety tips include preparing vehicles with survival gear such as blankets and food supplies; avoiding attempts to pass or closely follow snowplows; keeping mobile devices charged; checking on vulnerable individuals; following guidance regarding power outages; staying clear of downed power lines; unplugging appliances during outages except one light indicator; reporting electric issues directly via utility hotlines.
For further information on winter safety practices visit www.dhses.ny.gov/safety.
