Governor Hochul Updates New Yorkers on Heavy Rain and Lake Effect Snow Expected to Impact New Year Holiday

Locally Heavy Rain Expected for Parts of New York City, Long Island and Central New York During New Year’s Eve Celebrations Tuesday Night

Heavy Lake Effect Snow East and Southeast of Lakes Erie and Ontario Starting Wednesday Night, and Continuing Through Sunday with Significant Snowfall Accumulations Possible Where Snow Bands Persist

Lake Effect Snow Warnings for areas in Western New York, Finger Lakes, Central New York, Mohawk Valley, and North Country Regions

New Yorkers Urged to Pay Attention to Local Forecast and Prepare for Inclement Weather Conditions

Governor Kathy Hochul updated New Yorkers on heavy rain and snow expected to impact New Year’s Eve celebrations downstate with possible heavy rain followed by a winter storm system set to impact some upstate areas through Sunday. Governor Hochul yesterday directed State agencies and urged New Yorkers to take precautions ahead of the expected storms. Tonight, locally heavy rain is forecast for parts of New York City, Long Island and Central New York. Those attending festivities in Times Square should expect to be impacted with heavy rain and plan accordingly. On Wednesday, Lake Effect Snow will develop east and southeast of Lakes Erie and Ontario, continuing into the weekend. Lake Effect Snow Warnings have been issued for areas in Western New York, the Finger Lakes, Central New York, the Mohawk Valley, and the North Country from Wednesday morning to Sunday night. For northern Cayuga, Oswego, Jefferson and Lewis counties, total snow accumulations of up to 3 feet are possible in the most persistent lake snows by the end of the multiple day event. For other areas, snow accumulations of 1 to 2 feet are possible in the most persistent lake snows through Sunday. Winds in these locations could gust as high as 45 mph, impacting the Thursday morning commute with hazardous travel conditions including blowing snow, reduced visibilities, slippery surfaces, and downed tree limbs

“As we ring in the New Year, I urge New Yorkers to remain alert and monitor their local forecasts with heavy rain and snow expected to impact areas across the State,” Governor Hochul said. “With expected heavy rain in New York City, visitors of Times Square should remain vigilant as they take part in the New Year’s Eve festivities. Significant snowfall accumulations are also expected Wednesday through Sunday in regions throughout Central and Western New York, and the North Country. New York State is no stranger to varying weather conditions, and on a night where New Yorkers may be outside celebrating, it’s imperative to stay weather aware.”

Winter Storm Watches have been issued for parts of Western New York, Central New York, the Finger Lakes, the Mohawk Valley and the North Country from Wednesday through Sunday. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert at alert.ny.gov, a free service providing critical emergency information to your cell phone or computer.

Heating Safety

• Use only safe sources of alternative heat such as a fireplace, small well-vented wood or coal stove or portable space heaters.
• When using alternative heat sources such as a fireplace, woodstove, etc. always make sure you have proper ventilation and follow manufacturer's instructions.
• Keep curtains, towels, and potholders away from hot surfaces.
• Have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors and make sure they work.
• If you use kerosene heaters to supplement your regular heating fuel, or as an emergency source of heat, follow these safety tips:
  • Follow the manufacturers' instructions.
  • Use only the correct fuel for your unit.
  • Refuel outdoors only and only when the unit is cool.
  • Keep the heater at least three feet away from furniture and other flammable objects.
  • When using the heater, use fire safeguards and ventilate properly.

For more safety tips, visit dhses.ny.gov/safety. For all non-emergency service needs in New York State before, during or after a storm, call 211 or visit www.211nys.org/.