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Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a State of Emergency in Oneida and Oswego counties due to severe lake effect snowfall. The declaration, made on Monday (January 20), ensures that state resources are available to assist local communities throughout the storm's duration. The snowfall is expected to bring up to three feet of snow in some areas, with arctic air causing dangerously low temperatures.
The National Weather Service predicts that the Tug Hill plateau area could receive two to three feet of snow, while the Buffalo region may see one to two feet. The extreme cold poses a significant risk, with wind chills potentially reaching negative 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Residents are urged to stay indoors and keep pets inside to avoid frostbite, which can occur in 30 minutes or less.
County Executive Anthony Picente of Oneida County has also declared a local State of Emergency, advising against unnecessary travel to allow emergency personnel and snowplows to operate effectively. The emergency measures will remain in effect until further notice.
The New York State Department of Transportation and other agencies are coordinating efforts to manage the storm's impact. The state has deployed additional resources, including snowplow operators and emergency response teams, to the affected regions.