N.Y. Gov. Hochul issues warning for winter weather over Thanksgiving week

New York’s Staten Island. The snow and chilly weather that come with winter are approaching. Governor Kathy Hochul is warning of winter weather that will arrive just in time for Thanksgiving, but it will still be some time before New York is plunged into the cold season.

Hochul said winter weather will affect sections of the state starting Wednesday night and continuing through Thanksgiving and into the weekend.

We are experiencing winter weather throughout the state, so as we gather this Thanksgiving, I encourage all New Yorkers to be vigilant, keep an eye on local predictions, and travel with caution to spend time with loved ones, Hochul said. We are getting ready to send more snow removal equipment and workers, utility crews, and the National Guard on standby because heavy lake effect snow will also affect some locations this weekend. To guarantee that we may all enjoy this holiday season with our loved ones in a warm and safe manner, please make advance plans and put your safety and the safety of others first if you are traveling.

In the North Country, several inches of snow and freezing rain are predicted, according to a statement issued by Hochul’s office. According to Hochul’s office, further rain and snow will move over the state on Thursday, creating dangerous travel conditions this holiday.

Then, on Friday, cold air is predicted to bring lake effect snow accumulations of several feet to areas of Central New York, Western New York, and the North Country, which includes Buffalo, Watertown, and Jamestown, and borders Lakes Ontario and Erie.

Hochul went on to discuss the upcoming weather, predicting that the North Country will see eight inches of snowfall. Hochul stated that the prediction only calls for rain in the downstate, which includes New York City. That actually sounds pretty excellent, the governor said, considering the recent drought circumstances.

According to Hochul’s office, winter storm watches have been issued for parts of Western New York, the Finger Lakes, Central New York, and the North Country from Friday through Monday in preparation for the impending weather.

Hochul continued, “We’re going to be there on the ground, and I have hundreds of people from DOT, the Thruway Authority, ready to spring into action wherever we need the help.” Again, it’s awful timing, but for those of us who are able to remain home, simply burrow down and watch some football, we know how to manage it.