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A state of emergency has been declared in Oneida County due to a severe lake effect snowstorm. County Executive Anthony Picente Jr. announced the emergency on Sunday (January 5), citing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and severe snowdrifts as reasons for the declaration. Some areas, such as Camden, have received up to 65 inches of snow, while Ava has seen 60 inches.
The National Weather Service reports that these amounts are nearly double those in other parts of the county, such as Marcy and Floyd. The heaviest snow and most hazardous conditions are occurring north of the New York State Thruway. Picente has ordered all unnecessary travel to be banned to ensure the safety of residents and allow emergency personnel and snow plows to operate effectively.
The Oneida County Department of Public Works is deploying additional resources to the hardest-hit areas. The state of emergency will remain in effect until further notice, with no clear timeline for when it might be lifted.
Spectrum Local News and Syracuse.com report that the county is experiencing significant challenges due to the storm, and residents are urged to stay off the roads.