Governor Kathy Hochul is urging New Yorkers to exercise caution as the state prepares for the impact of two significant winter storms.
A storm is forecasted to arrive in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley on Friday, followed by a second, more widespread storm that will impact various parts of the state over the weekend.
Hochul voiced her statement, saying,
Wind and snow is expected to impact most of the State starting tomorrow, and I have mobilized State resources to respond and assist our local partners in keeping New Yorkers safe. New York is no stranger to winter weather, but I encourage everyone to make sure you and your family are prepared, exercise caution if traveling and continue to monitor your local forecast.
Winds of up to 40 mph, with gusts reaching 55 mph, are expected to affect most of the state through Friday evening, as the initial storm moves in.
Snowfall rates have the potential to reach up to two inches per hour, which could result in dangerous travel conditions. There is a possibility of seeing up to a foot of snow in areas ranging from Herkimer to Oswego County.
A significant snowstorm is expected to hit the state starting on Saturday afternoon and lasting through Sunday. This second storm will bring widespread snowfall across the entire area.
In Central New York and the Capital Region, there is a possibility of receiving four to eight inches of snow. The snowfall rates may even exceed one inch per hour.
In New York City and Long Island, there is a chance of snow mixing with rain. However, wind gusts are anticipated to stay below 35 mph, with occasional gusts reaching up to 40 mph.
Several counties are currently under Lake Effect Snow warnings, as there is a potential for significant accumulations in the areas located east of Lakes Ontario and Erie.
State agencies are on high alert, ready to respond, as the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Department of Transportation, Thruway Authority, and other agencies stand prepared.
The Department of Transportation is well-prepared for any situation with a dedicated team of 3,701 supervisors and operators across the state. They have made sure that all response equipment is in top condition and ready to be deployed whenever needed.
The Thruway Authority has taken steps to improve visibility and safety during winter operations by equipping all heavy-duty plow trucks with green hazard lights. This initiative aims to enhance the visibility of the trucks, ensuring that they are easily noticed by other motorists on the road. By using green hazard lights, the Thruway Authority is prioritizing the safety of both its drivers and the public during snow removal operations.
It is recommended for drivers to remain behind snowplows when encountering snowy conditions on the road. These snowplows typically travel at a speed of around 35 mph to ensure that salt is effectively dispersed onto the surface, improving traction and reducing the risk of accidents.
There are currently 5,500 workers available from utilities to assess and repair any damages that may occur. In addition, the State Police and the Department of Environmental Conservation have additional resources ready to be deployed if needed.
When planning a visit to state parks and backcountry areas, it is essential to be prepared for potentially hazardous conditions. It is strongly recommended to stay informed about park hours and trail conditions by regularly checking for updates. This proactive approach ensures that visitors can make informed decisions and stay safe while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.