Key Takeaways
- New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has expanded her emergency declaration to include all 62 counties in the state ahead of a lake effect storm
- The storm is expected to bring intense snowfall, high winds, and blizzard-like conditions, with snow falling at rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour
- A winter storm warning is in effect until 7 a.m. Wednesday, and local officials have issued their own alerts to residents, advising them to avoid unnecessary travel
- Hochul’s emergency declaration allows her to temporarily suspend state contracting rules and driving limits for commercial truck drivers
Introduction to the Storm
The state of New York is bracing itself for a intense lake effect storm that is expected to bring significant snowfall and blizzard-like conditions. In preparation for the storm, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has expanded her emergency declaration to include all 62 counties in the state. This declaration is an extension of the existing state of emergency that was issued during Friday’s snowstorm, and it will allow the state to take necessary measures to ensure public safety and respond to the storm’s impact.
The Storm’s Expected Impact
The lake effect storm is forecast to begin Monday night and is expected to be intense, with snow falling at rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour. This rapid snowfall, combined with high winds, will create blizzard-like conditions that will make travel and outdoor activities extremely hazardous. The storm is expected to drop as much as three feet of snow in some areas, with the worst of the storm expected to hit on Tuesday. A winter storm warning has been issued and will remain in effect until 7 a.m. Wednesday, during which time residents are advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel.
The Emergency Declaration
Hochul’s emergency declaration gives her the authority to take necessary measures to respond to the storm and ensure public safety. This includes the ability to temporarily suspend state contracting rules and driving limits for commercial truck drivers. This will allow the state to bring in necessary resources and supplies to affected areas, and will also help to ensure that critical infrastructure, such as roads and highways, are maintained and cleared of snow. The declaration also allows the state to mobilize resources, such as the National Guard, if necessary, to assist with storm response and recovery efforts.
Local Response and Preparations
Local officials have also issued their own alerts and advisories to residents, warning them of the storm’s expected impact and advising them to take necessary precautions. In Madison County, residents have been asked to avoid unnecessary travel from 10 p.m. Monday until 7 p.m. Tuesday, during which time the storm is expected to be at its most intense. Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon has also announced that he will issue a travel advisory later on Monday, which will provide further guidance and instructions to residents on how to stay safe during the storm. These local efforts will help to ensure that residents are prepared and aware of the storm’s expected impact, and will also help to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
Conclusion and Next Steps
As the storm approaches, residents of New York are advised to take necessary precautions and follow the instructions of local officials. This includes avoiding unnecessary travel, stocking up on supplies, and staying informed about the storm’s progress and any updates to the emergency declaration. By working together and taking necessary precautions, the state can minimize the impact of the storm and ensure that everyone stays safe. As the situation continues to unfold, it is likely that further updates and instructions will be issued, and residents are advised to stay tuned to local news and weather reports for the latest information.
