Governor Kathy Hochul has called on New Yorkers to exercise caution as lake effect snow is forecasted to affect regions including Western New York, Central New York, the Mohawk Valley, and the North Country from Wednesday through Saturday, November 29. The weather system is expected to coincide with Thanksgiving travel, historically one of the busiest periods for motorists. Snowfall is predicted to begin Wednesday night and reach its heaviest rates between Thursday and Friday.
“Thanksgiving is the busiest travel time of the year, and as lake effect snow enters our holiday plans, I am urging New Yorkers to exercise caution by leaving extra time for travel and monitoring for weather updates,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re preparing to deploy resources to keep New Yorkers safe and our roadways clear, and we will continue to work with our local partners to ensure everyone has a safe and joyful Thanksgiving with their friends and family.”
The Governor advised residents not only to plan their travel around the storm but also take precautions against risks associated with colder temperatures. State regulations require a Code Blue alert whenever wind chill or temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. During these periods, local social services must provide shelter access for people experiencing homelessness.
State agencies are mobilizing in response to the incoming storm:
– The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ Office of Emergency Management remains in contact with local authorities and stands ready to deploy emergency supplies.
– The Department of Transportation has more than 3,500 operators statewide prepared for response efforts. Equipment such as large plow trucks, tow plows, loaders, snow blowers, and graders are ready for deployment.
– The Thruway Authority will respond with over 670 personnel and significant equipment reserves including plow trucks and salt stockpiles exceeding 131,000 tons. Motorists are reminded that snowplows operate at about 35 mph for effective road treatment.
– The Department of Public Service is coordinating with electric utilities across the state; approximately 5,500 workers are available for damage assessment and restoration should power outages occur during the storm.
– The State Police will monitor conditions closely alongside other agencies. Troopers are on standby across all regions to respond if needed.
The Department of Environmental Conservation urges proper snow disposal practices to prevent flooding or water pollution. Municipalities should monitor flood-prone areas while DEC staff remain ready for resource deployment if necessary.
Hikers in backcountry areas such as the Adirondacks or Catskills should be prepared for hazardous winter conditions. Visitors can check online resources like Adirondack Backcountry Information pages before venturing out.
Motorists are advised by multiple agencies to monitor forecasts closely before traveling; avoid unnecessary trips; carry emergency supplies in vehicles; maintain visibility by clearing ice from cars; increase stopping distances; match driving speed to conditions; stay behind snowplows rather than attempting risky overtaking maneuvers.
For real-time traffic updates drivers can visit www.511NY.org or use mobile applications provided by state agencies.
