Governor Hochul Directs State Agencies to Prepare as Season’s First Lake Effect Snowfall is Forecast for Early Next Week

Preliminary Forecasts Show Lake Effect Snow in Parts of Western New York, Central New York and the North Country Beginning Sunday Evening and Lasting Into Tuesday

Seven to Twelve Inches of Snow Possible in Heaviest Lake Effect Bands in Chautauqua Ridge and Tug Hill Plateau; Potential for up to Six Inches of Snow in Areas Around Buffalo

‘Feels Like’ Temperatures Expected To Drop to Low-to-Mid Teens in Many Areas of the State

New Yorkers Can Sign Up for Weather and Emergency Alerts by Texting 333111

Governor Kathy Hochul today directed State agencies to prepare as forecasts are calling for the first lake effect snow of the ’25-’26 winter season that is expected to impact Western New York, Central New York and the North Country. Preliminary forecasts from the National Weather Service show the possibility for up to six inches of snowfall in areas around Buffalo, while seven to 12 inches of snow is possible in the heaviest snow bands which could form along the Chautauqua Ridge and Tug Hill Plateau areas. As these forecasts are preliminary, snow totals and exact locations of impacts have the potential to change as the system develops. Additionally, ‘feels like’ temperatures are expected to drop to the low-to-mid teens in many areas of the state.

“As the first snowfall of the season sweeps through Western and Central New York, and the North Country, I’m directing State agencies to mobilize all necessary resources to protect New Yorkers and their families,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re no strangers to lake effect snowfall, but I ask all New Yorkers to stay off the roads and take precautions as we work to keep our communities safe.”

Following a period of widespread rain showers Sunday, a strong cold front with low ‘feels like’ temperatures between 10 and 20 degrees is expected to cause a changeover to snow beginning Sunday night. Lake-enhanced bands of snow will develop southeast of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario and persist through at least Monday night. Periodic lighter snow is also possible outside of the primary lake effect areas. As westerly winds strengthen, it may direct weaker intensity lake snows due east of the lakes on Tuesday.

In addition to preparing for snow, New Yorkers should also prepare to protect against the dangers that can result from colder weather and winter activities. Under state regulation, a Code Blue is automatically in effect whenever the temperature and wind chill is below 32 degrees. Local social services districts are legally required to take necessary steps to ensure those experiencing homelessness have access to shelter and that shelter hours are extended. Cold Weather tips from the Department of Health can be found here; additional tips for preventing frostbite and hypothermia can be found here; information on Carbon Monoxide poisoning can be found here; information on the proper use of generators can be found here; safe winter driving tips can be found here.

The New York State Department of Labor advises workers and employers to engage in extreme cold weather best practices such as:

• Limit outdoor work, provide frequent breaks in warm areas and schedule outdoor work during the warmest times of the day.
• Ensure access to clean drinking water.
• Stay hydrated with warm beverages and avoid drinking caffeine.
• Wear proper PPE, including at least three layers of clothing, gloves or mittens, thick socks, insulated footwear and a hat, hood or hard hat liner.

More Information on best practices for working in cold weather can be found here.

Leading up to and throughout the duration of the event, New Yorkers should closely monitor their local forecasts and look for weather watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov.

New Yorkers should also ensure that government emergency alerts are enabled on their mobile phones. They should also sign up for real-time weather and emergency alerts that will be texted to their phones by texting their county or borough name to 333111.

 Hiking Safety

Unpredictable weather and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills and other backcountry areas can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Trails have mixed conditions, and visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for colder temperatures to ensure a safe outdoor experience.

Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures, and general recreation information.

Backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow proper safety guidelines. Plan trips accordingly. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Response equipment is being fueled, tested and prepared for storm response use. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free NY State Parks Explorer mobile app or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

Winter Driving Safety Tips

• Monitor the forecast for your local area and areas you may be travelling to.
• Avoid unnecessary travel.
• If you must travel, make sure your car is stocked with survival gear like blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
• If you have a cellphone or other communications device such as a two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling. If you should become stranded, you will be able to call for help, advising rescuers of your location.
• The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents. Before getting behind the wheel, make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.
• It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit.
• Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, to safely clear several lanes at one time.
• Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions.
• Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely. The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted. Never attempt to pass a snowplow while it's operating.