LATHAM, NY (WRGB) — A powerful winter storm prompted Gov. Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency for the Capital Region for Sunday night starting at 4 pm, warning of blizzard-like conditions, up to a foot of snow and strong winds.
Hochul said the storm has the potential to be historic and should be taken seriously. While officials said the heaviest impacts are expected downstate, where areas are facing their first blizzard warnings in almost a decade, the storm is also expected to move into the Capital Region.
“Once again, New York State is in the crosshairs of a very dangerous, fast-moving, potentially life-threatening winter storm,” Hochul said.
A state of emergency was declared for 22 counties ahead of a nor’easter expected to bring blizzard-like conditions. Hochul said the state had been closely monitoring the storm, but the forecast shifted dramatically almost overnight.
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“A blizzard is literally bearing down on Long Island, New York City and the lower Hudson Valley and is actually moving further North than we first thought,” she said.
The Capital Region is expected to see between 8 and 12 inches of snow. Acting Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Terry O’Leary urged residents to stay off the roads, warning that high wind gusts could create dangerous, blinding conditions.
“It can be disorienting to be outside even though the temperature will be in the 20s. Do not go outside during blizzard conditions. Make a plan, hunker down and stay where you need to be Sunday night through Monday night,” O’Leary said.Comment with Bubbles
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State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Dominguez said crews are in place, with extra resources being sent downstate. Hochul also warned travelers to expect widespread flight delays and cancellations as the storm moves through.