Governor Hochul expands the state of emergency across all of New York as lake effect snow and high winds continue to threaten travel and public safety

New York – Governor Kathy Hochul has expanded New York State’s State of Emergency to cover the entire state as a powerful and persistent winter storm system continues to deliver heavy lake effect snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions across large portions of Upstate New York. The decision comes as forecasters warn that the storm’s impacts will stretch on for several days, with some regions facing feet of snow, near whiteout conditions, and the risk of power outages.

The storm system began evolving overnight as periods of rain and ice transitioned into heavy lake effect snow early Monday morning. Winds in Western New York reached speeds as high as 70 miles per hour, creating blizzard-like conditions and sharply reducing visibility. As the lake effect bands settled in off Lakes Erie and Ontario, snowfall intensified and began targeting multiple regions, including Western New York, the Finger Lakes, Central New York, and the North Country. Officials say this prolonged event is expected to continue for most of the week, keeping conditions hazardous for travelers and residents alike.

Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to remain cautious and prepared as the storm continues to unfold. “As winter storms continue to impact several regions across Upstate New York, my message to New Yorkers remains the same: monitor local forecasts, avoid travel, and stay prepared,” Governor Hochul said. “Plow crews, emergency management teams and utility personnel continue to work to keep New Yorkers safe, and we stand ready to deploy additional resources anywhere they are needed throughout the storm.”

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Meteorologists warn that snowfall rates could become intense, especially in areas directly downwind of the Great Lakes. In regions east and southeast of Lake Erie, including the Chautauqua Ridge and parts of southern Erie County, snowfall totals through Wednesday night could reach between two and three feet. Snowfall rates in these areas may exceed one and a half inches per hour and could climb as high as three inches per hour at times, making plowing difficult and travel nearly impossible during peak periods.

Communities farther north are not expected to be spared. Buffalo and nearby areas could still receive more than a foot of snow, while lake effect bands off Lake Ontario are forecast to shift southward from Watertown and across the Tug Hill Plateau before settling into the Syracuse metro area. By midweek, parts of the Tug Hill region and Syracuse could also see snowfall totals between two and three feet, accompanied by periods of intense snowfall and blowing snow.

Strong winds remain a major concern throughout the duration of the storm. Gusts between 40 and 45 miles per hour are expected to be widespread, with isolated gusts potentially reaching 50 miles per hour. The strongest winds are forecast for Tuesday morning, with gradual improvement expected by Wednesday. However, officials caution that even reduced wind speeds could continue to create blowing snow and sudden whiteout conditions, especially on open roadways.

The combination of heavy snow and high winds increases the risk of tree damage and power outages, particularly in areas where gusts are strongest. Downed trees and power lines could block roads and disrupt utility service, further complicating response and recovery efforts. Residents are being advised to remain indoors whenever possible and to report outages promptly to their utility providers.

In response to the deteriorating conditions, Governor Hochul has ordered changes to state operations in several counties. On Monday, all non-essential state employees who live or work in Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Niagara, and Wyoming Counties were sent home beginning at 10 a.m. For Tuesday, non-essential state employees in a broader group of counties, including Oswego, Cayuga, Onondaga, Cortland, Madison, Wayne, Jefferson, Lewis, and Oneida, have been directed to telecommute where possible.

Transportation officials continue to monitor road conditions closely as several closures and restrictions remain in effect. State Route 80 is closed in both directions between Pickle Hill Road and Spring Street in the town of Minden due to trees on wires. In Erie County, State Route 266 is closed between Grand Island Boulevard and Sawyer Avenue because of flooding, while the Buffalo Skyway remains shut down due to high winds.

To reduce the risk of accidents involving high-profile vehicles, an empty tractor trailer and tandem ban is currently in effect on several major highways. These restrictions include long stretches of the Thruway, the Niagara Expressway, and key connectors such as I-290, I-990, Route 400, and portions of I-86 and US Route 219. Officials stress that these bans are critical for preventing vehicles from being blown off the road or jackknifing in poor visibility.

The National Weather Service has issued numerous Winter Storm Warnings, Watches, Winter Weather Advisories, High Wind Warnings, and Wind Advisories across the state. Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts closely and remain alert for updates as conditions evolve. Officials also recommend enabling emergency alerts on mobile phones and signing up for text alerts by texting 333111.

State agencies have activated extensive response plans to address the storm’s impacts. The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is coordinating with local governments and stands ready to deploy additional resources from state stockpiles. The State Watch Center is operating around the clock, tracking storm developments and coordinating emergency response efforts statewide.

The Department of Transportation has mobilized thousands of workers and pieces of equipment to keep roads passable. More than 3,600 operators and supervisors are available statewide, supported by a fleet that includes over 1,600 large plow trucks, hundreds of loaders, and specialized snow removal equipment. Crews from less impacted areas have been redeployed to Western New York to assist with the response.

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The Thruway Authority has also prepared significant resources, including nearly 700 operators and supervisors, hundreds of plow trucks, and more than 126,000 tons of salt. Officials remind drivers that snowplows travel at reduced speeds to ensure safe and effective treatment of roadways and urge motorists to remain well behind plows at all times.

Utility crews are working around the clock to prepare for and respond to outages. More than 7,700 utility workers, including thousands of mutual aid personnel, are engaged in damage assessment, repair, and restoration efforts. The Department of Public Service continues to oversee utility response efforts to ensure service is restored safely and efficiently.

New York State Police remain on alert statewide, coordinating with transportation, emergency management, and local agencies. Troopers are prepared to assist stranded motorists, respond to emergencies, and adjust staffing as conditions warrant.

Environmental officials are also monitoring the storm’s impact on waterways and natural areas. The Department of Environmental Conservation warns that improper snow disposal can lead to flooding and water quality issues and urges snow removal operators to follow best practices. Backcountry users are advised to avoid high-elevation trails and remain prepared for rapidly changing winter conditions.

As the storm continues, officials emphasize that safety remains the top priority. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, prepare emergency kits, check on vulnerable neighbors, and remain informed through official channels. With heavy snow and high winds expected to persist for days, state leaders stress that patience and preparedness will be critical as New York weathers another intense winter event.