New York governor Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency for the state of New York Wednesday morning.
“This is a significant winter storm impacting all regions of the state and we are taking all necessary steps to keep New Yorkers safe,” Governor Cuomo said in a press release.
“I have declared a state of emergency for all counties so that we can continue our effective and quick response in communities that have been hit the hardest. New Yorkers in affected regions should stay off the roads, check on their neighbors and loved ones, and stay inside their homes until the worst of the storm has passed.”
A large storm system has affected the eastern United States over the past three days. The city is reporting more than 20 cm of snow. Many parts are expecting a further 10 to 20 cm.
Crews have been working “around the clock” said Department of Transportation Commissioner Joan McDonald. She also advised commuters to avoid using Interstate 84 until further notice as crews continue to remove snow and ice. A vehicle ban was issued on the interstate between the Pennsylvania and Connecticut borders.
READ MORE: Heavy snow, strong winds hit parts of southern Ontario, Atlantic Canada
A total of 1,789 plows, 359 loaders and more than 4,000 operators are working to clear roadways.
On top of everything else, salt shortages have beeen reported in New York City and Long Island, though Cuomo said that the state has enough salt. He has directed the transportation commissioner to move surplus salt supplies — a total of 3,500 tons or 130 truckloads — from state stockpiles to the areas in need.
Comments