A major lake effect snow event is expected to have big travel impacts this weekend. Especially for those traveling west along the New York State Thruway.
Governor Kathy Hochul says the state is issuing a state of emergency ahead of the intense lake effect snow event, which has prompted multiple National Weather Service warnings and advisories for communities west of the Finger Lakes.
The heaviest snow is expected to fall across Western New York between Thursday evening and Saturday night. It will continue into the day on Sunday, but at lesser intensities.
As result, the New York State Thruway is prohibiting commercial travel west of Exit 46 (Henrietta).
Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel in the areas impacted.
“Parts of Western New York, the Finger Lakes, Central New York and the North Country are about to get their first snowstorm of the season, which means we need everyone in these impacted regions to be ready for dangerous travel conditions,” Governor Hochul said. “My team and I are deploying emergency response assets ahead of the storm, remain in constant contact with local officials, and are laser focused on the forecast. New Yorkers should remain vigilant ahead of the storm and avoid any unnecessary travel during these hazardous conditions.”
The state will deploy more than 1,600 plow trucks in Western New York.
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