Heavy Snowfall with Over 1 Meter of Snow Accumulation in Northern New York due to “Great Lakes Effect”

The winter storm continues to wreak havoc in the state of New York, particularly in the regions adjacent to Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, where the “lake effect” is causing heavy snowfall from Friday (November 29) until next Monday (December 2). The state government is warning the public that snow accumulation over the next few days could reach up to 3 feet (approximately 91.44 centimeters) to 4 feet (approximately 121.92 centimeters).

Governor Kathy Hochul stated on November 28 that the winter snowstorm will persist from Thanksgiving through the weekend, affecting parts of New York state. Hochul is urging all New Yorkers to remain vigilant, monitor local weather conditions, and plan ahead while reuniting with family and friends over the holiday weekend, prioritizing their own and others’ safety.

From Friday to Monday, there are snowfall warnings due to the lake effect in parts of western, central, and northern New York state. In areas downwind of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, snow accumulation could reach 3 to 4 feet, resulting in reduced visibility, making travel extremely difficult, if not nearly impossible.

In response to the winter storm, the state’s Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, along with the Department of Transportation, will deploy 1,635 large snowplows, 339 loaders, 150 medium-sized snowplows, 51 snowblowers, 35 snow pushers, and 18 graders across the state of New York.

The state’s Thruway Authority recommends that the public install the “New York State Thruway” mobile application on their phones to stay informed about real-time conditions on the highways, access traffic cameras, and receive navigation assistance. Citizens can also follow the Thruway Authority’s social media platform account “X” at @ThruwayTraffic.