New York Governor Kathy Hochul has issued a warning to residents as a storm system is expected to bring rain, possible thunderstorms, strong winds, and coastal flooding across the state from Thursday night through midday Friday. The weather event may cause localized urban and river flooding, power outages, tree damage, and dangerous travel conditions due to snow and icy roads.
Governor Hochul advised residents to take precautions during the holiday travel period. “New Yorkers are no strangers to bad weather, but it is always important to be aware of the forecast to be able to plan accordingly,” she said. “As we gear up for holiday travel, New Yorkers should make sure their cars are packed and prepared with safety equipment like first aid kits and shovels, extra warm clothes, blankets and water. Drive slowly and stay safe as we head into the weekend.”
Rainfall will start in Western New York late Thursday before moving eastward overnight. Rainfall rates could reach up to an inch per hour early Friday morning in eastern parts of the state. Total rainfall in western areas is expected between 0.25 to 0.75 inches, while eastern regions could see 0.50 to one inch, with some local totals reaching two inches.
Winds are projected at 40-50 miles per hour statewide with isolated gusts up to 65 miles per hour, especially in Western New York, parts of the Mid-Hudson Region, and Long Island. Winds will shift from south on Thursday night to west on Friday.
Colder air behind the storm will likely turn rain into snow east of the Great Lakes and higher elevations by Friday morning through night. Snow accumulations may range from one to three inches in Western New York and the North Country; some areas could receive up to eight inches of heavy wet snow that may contribute further risk for downed trees and power outages.
Hazardous travel conditions are anticipated as temperatures drop rapidly on Friday evening which could result in black ice on roadways.
The state’s Code Blue regulation will automatically activate when wind chill or temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit; this requires local social services districts to ensure shelter access for people experiencing homelessness.
The Department of Labor recommends employers limit outdoor work during extreme cold weather by scheduling shifts at warmer times of day, providing frequent breaks indoors or in heated shelters, ensuring workers wear layered clothing including gloves or mittens and insulated footwear.
Weather alerts such as High Wind Warnings have been issued statewide; updates can be found at the National Weather Service website (https://www.weather.gov/).
State agencies have taken several measures:
– The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is monitoring impacts via its State Watch Center.
– The Department of Transportation has over 3,600 supervisors/operators ready statewide along with more than 1,600 large plow trucks available.
– The Thruway Authority uses variable message signs and social media channels (X/Twitter: @ThruwayTraffic) for real-time traffic information; its mobile app provides live traffic cameras and navigation help.
– Regulated electric utilities have mobilized more than 6,400 workers including external contractors for repair efforts following high winds or outages.
– State Police are coordinating with other agencies across all regions; troopers are ready for emergency response.
– DEC staff remain alert for environmental impacts including flooding risks related to improper snow disposal.
– Park police have prepared response equipment; park visitors should check parks.ny.gov or use NY State Parks Explorer app for updates about park operations.
Travelers are encouraged not only to monitor forecasts but also stock vehicles with survival gear such as blankets, food supplies like quick energy snacks or water bottles—plus keep communication devices charged in case assistance is needed during transit disruptions caused by hazardous road conditions.
