A major winter storm is affecting New York as dangerously cold air and periods of heavy snow create hazardous travel conditions across Central New York and the Lake Ontario region.
The National Weather Service office in Buffalo has issued Winter Storm Warnings for parts of Central New York and noted that lake-effect snow could continue after the main storm moves through, keeping roads slick and visibility poor at times.
Travel restrictions and state response
Gov. Kathy Hochul said the storm is expected to bring widespread impacts and urged residents to limit travel when conditions deteriorate. The state has a State of Emergency in place and has activated state resources to support local response efforts.
As part of storm operations, New York implemented restrictions aimed at reducing crashes and keeping highways moving during the worst conditions. The Governor’s office announced that all commercial vehicles must travel in the right lane on state roads (including the Thruway) starting at 12 a.m. Sunday, and long combination tandem vehicles are banned from the Thruway beginning at 6 a.m. Sunday.
What the warnings mean
A Winter Storm Warning is issued when significant snow and/or blowing snow is expected to make travel dangerous. Even when snowfall totals vary by community, the combination of snow, wind, and very cold temperatures can quickly lead to whiteout-like conditions in open areas and rapidly deteriorating road surfaces.
Safety reminders
Officials recommend:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during the height of the storm and lake-effect bands.
- If you must drive, keep extra warm layers, a charged phone, and a winter emergency kit.
- Check the latest local alerts and forecasts frequently, as snow bands can shift quickly and change conditions from one town to the next.
