Hochul urges New Yorkers to take caution ahead of winter storm

Lake-effect snow to impact areas east of lakes Erie and Ontario Wednesday-Friday; up to 2 feet of snow or more possible with peak snowfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour; strong wind gusts of 30-45 mph could result in whiteout conditions

Submitted by the Office of Gov. Kathy Hochul

Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday urged New Yorkers to take caution, as a large winter storm system is expected to bring lake-effect snow, strong winds and thunderstorms to New York. Light rain on Tuesday will transition to heavy rain on Wednesday with wet snow beginning Wednesday night with the potential to cause flooding across eastern New York. Thunderstorms and strong winds could cause damage downstate. From Wednesday through Friday, areas east of lakes Erie and Ontario could see 2 to 3 feet of snow, as a lake-effect snow event begins bringing strong wind gusts of 30-45 mph that could result in whiteout conditions impacting commutes.

“As this significant winter storm approaches, I urge all New Yorkers to be alert and take the necessary precautions to stay safe,” Hochul said. “Our state agencies are monitoring conditions and working to ensure resources are in place ready to respond where they are needed most. Please continue to monitor your local forecast and prioritize your safety and that of your loved ones.”

Downstate areas will see rain beginning Tuesday evening with strong winds moving in Wednesday afternoon through Thursday. Strong wind gusts and heavy rain could cause hazardous travel conditions and power outages. Coastal flooding could occur and unsecured objects could get blown away.

The Southern Tier, Central New York, Mohawk Valley and North Country regions could see high snowfall rates on Wednesday evening. Heavy, wet snow could cause power disruptions and low visibility during the evening commute.

Lake-effect snow will impact areas east of lakes Erie and Ontario Wednesday afternoon through Friday night, with 1 to 2 feet expected in the Buffalo and Watertown areas. Strong winds will impact the Wednesday evening commute and both commutes Thursday, but will die down by Friday.

Numerous watches and warnings are in effect for much of the state. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov. New Yorkers can sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert at alert.ny.gov, a free service providing emergency information to a cell phone or computer.

For real-time travel information, motorists can call 511 or visit 511ny.org, New York state's official traffic and travel information source.