Governor Cuomo Directs State Agencies to Prepare Emergency Assets as Multiple Storm Systems Will Impact the State over New Year's Weekend

 

Snow, Sleet and Freezing Rain Could Affect Travel for Several Days Across Much of New York

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today directed State agencies to prepare emergency assets and assist local governments as needed as multiple storm systems are expected to impact locations throughout the state with snow, sleet and freezing rain through the holiday weekend. Travel conditions are expected to be impacted, with areas in higher elevations likely seeing snow and mixed precipitation, while areas in lower elevations may see rain or ice accumulation up to a quarter of an inch in some places. Other locations should see a mix of sleet, rain and freezing rain. Due to multiple rounds of winter weather conditions, isolated power outages may also occur.

"As we head into New Year's weekend, a series of storms are poised to deliver snow, rain, and freezing rain throughout the state over the next several days," Governor Cuomo said. "State agencies are already preparing emergency response equipment and stand ready to assist any of our local partners if necessary. New Yorkers should also remember to celebrate smart this year. If anyone is traveling in the coming days, please use extreme caution while driving, especially during the evening and early morning hours, when temperatures may drop below freezing and turn the rain to ice."

As a cold front approaches the state later today, a wintry mix is expected to hit the North Country, Central New York, Mohawk Valley, and Southern Tier Regions, where some areas could see light snow accumulation.  Most other areas should see a mix of rain and sleet that will likely impact travel as temperatures hover around the freezing mark.

On Friday night, another storm will impact the state with accumulating snow and sleet, freezing rain and rain that will last into Saturday morning.  Areas in the Mohawk Valley and Central New York Regions could see 1 to 3 inches of snow or mixed precipitation, while locations in the Western New York, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, Capital District and Mid-Hudson Regions could see a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain.  As the storm moves through the state, snow and mixed precipitation may quickly transition to freezing rain.  Rain may quickly freeze upon contact with the ground and cause hazardous driving conditions, especially on untreated roadways.

Forecasters are watching another storm system that could produce similar hazardous weather conditions on Sunday.

The National Weather Service continues to issue advisories, watches, and warnings for potentially hazardous winter weather conditions. For a complete listing of weather watches, warnings, advisories, as well as current weather forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website.