Storm Preparation Update: Cuomo Declares State of Emergency Beginning at Midnight

 

Governor Andrew Cuomo today activated the State Emergency Operations Center for Monday evening to prepare and respond to the Nor'easter that is expected to reach New York State late Monday night. At the Governor's direction, State agencies have already pre-positioned personnel, assets, and state stockpile resources – including sandbags, generators and pumps – to areas of the state where the storm will be at its strongest.

With the snow storm approaching, the Governor urges commuters to drive with caution for the Tuesday morning and afternoon commutes, and to avoid unnecessary travel. Motorists, especially tractor trailers, should be prepared for road closures across the state.

"In preparation for blizzard-like conditions, I will be activating the State Emergency Operations Center and have directed state agencies to continue proactively preparing communities and roadways for this major storm," Governor Cuomo said. "We remain in constant contact with local officials in every region, as New York prepares to aggressively clear roads, provide personnel and storm equipment as needed, and offer immediate assistance to communities across the state. I strongly urge everyone to limit unnecessary travel on Tuesday, and if you must ‎drive, please plan ahead, be careful, and stay safe."

Snow is expected to cover Upstate New York, where 12 to 16 inches of snow is anticipated in Western New York, the Finger Lakes, and Central New York regions with higher totals in higher elevations likely. The heaviest snow accumulations are expected south and east of the of the Capital Region where 12 to 18 inches of snow is expected from late Monday night through late Tuesday night. Peak snowfall will be Tuesday and snow may linger in the higher elevations into Wednesday.

Snow will move into the lower Mid-Hudson Valley, New York City and Long Island regions after midnight on Monday. Heavy snow will be begin early Monday morning and affect the Tuesday morning rush hour. By the evening commute, there is strong potential for 16 to 20 inches of snow with whiteout conditions throughout the day. Snowfall rates may reach 2 to 4 inches per hour at intermittent periods throughout the day, which will be exacerbated by gusty winds of 40-50 miles per hour in New York City and Long Island. Driving will be especially hazardous on Tuesday for both the morning and evening commutes. Minor coastal flooding is also expected during high tide. Residents in these regions should expect possible closures, delays and cancellations, and regularly monitor for updated information to plan ahead. 

Click here for additional information. Click here for audio of Governor Cuomo's conference call with New York State officials. 

Source: Press Office, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo