(WNY News Now) – Governor Kathy Hochul warns New Yorkers to prepare for a winter storm expected to blanket the state, particularly the Mid-Hudson Region, with over a foot of snow, causing hazardous travel conditions and potential disruptions.
Governor Kathy Hochul is urging residents across New York to brace for a potent winter storm set to unleash heavy snowfall and treacherous travel conditions. The Mid-Hudson Region, including the Catskills, is forecasted to receive 8-12 inches, with local amounts possibly reaching 18 inches. New York City and parts of Long Island could see up to eight inches of snow. The storm, anticipated to last from overnight tonight through Tuesday evening, may bring snowfall rates of up to two inches per hour and wind gusts reaching 25-40 mph, especially off the south shores of Long Island.
To mitigate potential dangers, a ban on empty and tandem tractor trailers on I-84 will be enforced from the Connecticut state line to the Pennsylvania state line starting at midnight. New Yorkers should anticipate hazardous driving conditions, localized power outages, road closures, and travel disruptions throughout the storm.
Governor Hochul emphasized preparedness, stating, “Even though we’re coming out of a few days of record high temperatures, this storm is a stark reminder that winter is still alive and well.”
The state’s emergency response agencies, including the Division of Homeland Security, Department of Transportation, Thruway Authority, and utility companies, are mobilizing resources. Additional plow trucks, personnel, and equipment are being deployed strategically in impacted regions, with the ban on tandem trailers and empty trucks on the Thruway to enhance safety.
Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts through NY Alert and stay informed about weather updates from the National Weather Service. The Department of Public Service emphasizes safety during power outages, providing guidance on using alternative heating sources and reporting outages promptly.
The New York State Police, Department of Environmental Conservation, Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, and Port Authority are also on high alert, ready to respond to the storm’s impacts.
For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit www.511ny.org. Governor Hochul reassures residents, “My team will continue to monitor the storm until it’s long gone.”
For non-emergency service needs, New Yorkers can call 211 or visit 211nys.org. The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) provides leadership and support to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters and emergencies. Follow @NYSDHSES for updates or visit dhses.ny.gov.
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