Key Takeaways:
- Parts of Onondaga County may receive 20 to 30 inches of snow from late Monday to Tuesday afternoon
- A travel advisory will be issued later on Monday, with a possible "no unnecessary travel" declaration if snowfall exceeds 1-2 inches per hour
- An "all-out travel ban" is a worst-case scenario, depending on the severity of the snowstorm
- The county will partially activate its emergency operations center to facilitate communication between officials
- Both county and city plows will be operating, with possible assistance from the county on main city arteries if needed
Introduction to the Snowstorm
A significant snowstorm is expected to hit parts of Onondaga County, with County Executive Ryan McMahon warning of potentially severe conditions. In a statement made on Monday afternoon, McMahon announced that the area could see "20 to 30 inches of snow" from late Monday through Tuesday afternoon. This substantial snowfall is expected to be accompanied by strong winds, with gusts reaching 50 to 60 mph. As a result, McMahon will be issuing a travel advisory later on Monday, with the possibility of further restrictions if the snowfall becomes too heavy.
Travel Restrictions and Advisories
The travel advisory is expected to be issued later on Monday, with McMahon warning that if the snow falls at a rate of more than one to two inches per hour, county snowplows will be unable to keep up, even when working at full capacity. In such an event, McMahon will issue a "no unnecessary travel" declaration, which could potentially happen overnight. This declaration is intended to minimize the number of people on the roads, reducing the risk of accidents and allowing snowplows to clear the roads more efficiently. If the situation worsens, an "all-out travel ban" is a possibility, although this is considered a worst-case scenario.
Snowplow Operations and Emergency Response
To mitigate the effects of the snowstorm, both county and city plows will be operating, with the county deploying all its available snowplows. However, McMahon noted that county plows are too large to navigate city side streets, so they will focus on clearing main roads and highways. If the city requires assistance with main arteries, the county will provide support. The county will also partially activate its emergency operations center, which will serve as a central hub for communication and coordination between county, city, state, and local officials. This will enable a more efficient response to the snowstorm, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and that residents receive timely updates on the situation.
Timing and Severity of the Snowstorm
The lake-effect snow is expected to begin falling heavily around 1 a.m. overnight and continue until 1 p.m. on Tuesday. This prolonged period of snowfall will likely lead to significant accumulations, with the potential for drifts and blowing snow due to the strong winds. The worst of the snowstorm is expected to occur during the overnight period, with the heaviest snowfall rates and strongest winds predicted during this time. As a result, residents are advised to exercise caution and plan accordingly, avoiding travel unless absolutely necessary and staying informed about the latest developments through official channels.
Conclusion and Preparations
In conclusion, the snowstorm expected to hit Onondaga County is a significant event that requires careful planning and preparation. With the potential for 20 to 30 inches of snow and strong winds, residents should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of others. By staying informed, following travel advisories, and taking steps to prepare for the storm, residents can minimize the risks associated with this severe weather event. As the county and city work together to respond to the snowstorm, it is essential for residents to remain vigilant and take the necessary steps to stay safe during this period of severe weather.
