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The massive winter storm continues to bring heavy snowfall across most of New York State Sunday, with some areas expected to receive up to two feet of snow by Monday afternoon. Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency and deployed 100 members of the New York National Guard to support response operations.
"Snow has begun falling across much of the state and we are anticipating the longest cold stretch and the highest snow totals that we've had in several years," Governor Hochul said. "New Yorkers should avoid any unnecessary travel allowing first responders and plow crews to do their jobs in keeping people safe and clearing our roads."
The storm, which began impacting southern portions of the state Sunday morning, is expected to continue until Monday afternoon. The Hudson Valley, Mohawk Valley, Capital Region, and parts of the North Country could see up to two feet of snow, while the Catskills might receive even more. Western New York and the upper North Country are forecast to get up to a foot of snow. In New York City and Long Island, snow is expected to turn to sleet overnight before changing back to snow Monday, with accumulations reaching up to a foot.
The State Emergency Operations Center has been activated and will remain staffed throughout the storm to coordinate response efforts and handle local requests for assistance. All commercial vehicles are now restricted to traveling only in the right lane on all state roads, including the New York State Thruway. A travel ban for Long Combination Tandem Vehicles is also in effect on the Thruway.
At a press conference Sunday, Governor Hochul advised residents to stay off roads entirely if possible. "They're going to be slick, icy, snow-covered," she warned.
The New York State Department of Transportation has nearly 3,700 supervisors and operators available statewide and responding in affected areas. All residency locations will remain staffed 24/7 throughout the duration of the storm and priority cleanup operations.
All non-essential state employees have been directed to telecommute on Monday where possible, and Governor Hochul encouraged private employers to allow remote work as well.
New Yorkers can sign up for real-time weather and emergency alerts by texting their county or borough name to 333111. The governor also noted that the state's response has been aided by the New York State Weather Risk Communication Center based at the University of Albany, which provides real-time weather information to state agencies and emergency managers.
With temperatures expected to remain low throughout next week, officials warn that ice could easily develop across paved surfaces. This ice accumulation mixed with blowing snow will create whiteout conditions, causing hazardous road conditions and making travel difficult.