Gov. Cuomo Declares State of Emergency, Urges New Yorkers to Avoid Travel

 New Yorkers should avoid all unnecessary travel today, said Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, who declared a state of emergency in New York City and nine other counties throughout the Hudson Valley and Long Island. Anyone who must travel today should do so with extreme caution, and they try to get to their destination before noon, 

   The governor also issued an advisory for travelers and commuters  who use the above-ground subway service. In addition, segments of the Long Island Railroad and Metro-North, may be significantly delayed or stopped this afternoon. Additionally, a number of major roadways including the Long Island Expressway, I-84 and others could face travel bans if snowfall rates reach the expected rate of one to three inches per hour.  

      "This storm is no joke and the main concern right now is that the expected snowfall rate of two inches per hour this afternoon creates an extremely dangerous situation on our roadways," Gov. Cuomo said. "When snow is falling that quickly, it makes it very difficult for plows to keep up with it. I want New Yorkers to hear me loud and clear: stay home and off the roads and if you must travel, get where you're going before noon, and expect to remain home for some time. We've been through this before and we will get through it again."

     The storm, which has already brought six inches of snow, which is expected to accumulate until up to 18 inches have fallen by Tuesday morning. 

   As the day progresses, the governor said, snowfall rates are expected to increase to up to three inches per hour, as the storm progresses northward. Wind gusts could reach up to 50 to 60 mph.

    Drivers should use extreme caution, as the day’s blowing and drifting snow will cause reduced visibility and treacherous driving conditions.

(Mike Groll/Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo)