NEW YORK — New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday urged New Yorkers to take precautionary measures due to winter storm Approaching the New York area and will primarily affect the North Country, Mohawk Valley, Capital Region, Mid-Hudson, and Central New York regions with a mix of snow and rain. Parts of North Country could see 12 to 18 inches or more of snow, with parts of the Mohawk Valley, Central New York, Southern Tier and Capital Region expected to receive up to a foot of snow by Saturday, with peak snowfall rates of up to two inches per time possible on Thursday night and Friday.
Freezing rain or sleet is not expected to produce significant accumulations of ice during the event. However, travel conditions will be hazardous beginning Thursday night and the snow may be wet and heavy enough to cause localized power outages. The Democrat urged New Yorkers to monitor local forecasts and be prepared for weather conditions.
“I encourage all New Yorkers to exercise caution and be prepared for potential power outages and difficult travel on Thursday and Friday as snow and ice accumulate in the north eastern parts of the state,” Governor Hochul said. “Our emergency response agencies are well prepared for this storm and will be working around the clock for the next several days to keep New Yorkers safe.”
In addition to snowfall in the forecast, the New York City and Long Island regions are expected to see up to two inches of rain Thursday afternoon through Saturday morning. This precipitation could start as a wintry mix on Thursday afternoon that could affect nighttime commuting.
SFOLLOW THE WEATHER AUTHORITY HERE FOR THE LATEST ON THE STORM.
Rafael Pujols brings us the details from New Jersey.
Security advice
To drive:
- Don’t drive unless you have to.
- Be careful on bridges as ice can form faster than on roads.
- If you must travel, make sure your car is equipped with survival gear such as blankets, a shovel, a flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, a set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy food, and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
- If you have a cell phone or other communication device, such as a two-way radio, available for use, keep the battery charged and take it with you when you travel. If you become stranded, you will be able to call for help and notify rescuers of your location.
- The leading cause of death and injury during winter storms is transportation accidents. Before you get behind the wheel, make sure your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; Good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars.
- It is important for motorists on all highways to be aware that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is less than the posted speed limit, to ensure that scattered salt remains in the lanes of travel. and do not spread out of the lanes.
- Motorists and pedestrians should also be aware 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.
to remove snow
- Intense exertion, such as shoveling snow, clearing debris, or pushing a car, increases the risk of a heart attack. To avoid problems:
- Stay warm, dress warm, and slow down when working outside.
- Take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion.
- If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or jaw pain that radiates down your arm, stop what you are doing and get help right away.
Power outages
- Call your utility company to determine area repair hours.
- Turn off or unplug lights and appliances to prevent circuit overload when service is restored; leave a light on to indicate when power has been restored.
- If the heat goes out during a winter storm, stay warm by closing off rooms you don’t need.
heating safety
- Use only safe sources of alternative heat, such as a fireplace, a small, well-ventilated coal or wood stove, or space heaters.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- When using alternative heat sources, such as a fireplace, wood stove, etc., always ensure adequate ventilation.
- Keep curtains, towels, and potholders away from hot surfaces.
- Have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors and make sure they work.
- If you use kerosene heaters to supplement your regular heating oil, or as an emergency heat source, follow these safety tips:
- Follow the manufacturers instructions.
- Use only the correct fuel for your unit.
- Refuel outdoors and only when the unit is cold.
- Keep heater at least three feet from furniture and other flammable objects.
- When using the heater, use fire protection and adequate ventilation.