Eye On The Storm: State Emergency Operations Center Will Be Activated

With a Blizzard Warning in effect for much of southern New York and up to 21 inches of snowfall expected to fall in the Hudson Valley, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said he will activate the State Emergency Operations Center as the state prepares for the blockbuster Nor’easter.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo helps a stranded driver on a stretch of the Sprain Brook Parkway near Hawthorne during the mid-February snowstorm.
Photo Credit: *Gov. Andrew Cuomo's Office*

Blizzard Warnings are in effect for areas farther south and to the east.
Photo Credit: *AccuWeather.com*

New snowfall projections from the National Weather Service say parts of the area could get 21 inches of accumulation.
Photo Credit: *National Weather Service*

Zak Failla

03/13/2017 12:21 p.m.

According to the National Weather Service, snow will move into the Hudson Valley region after midnight on Monday, with Mother Nature bringing a potential 16 to 21 inches of precipitation to the area, prompting Cuomo to activate the center.

Cuomo has urged motorists to avoid unnecessary travel, if possible.

"In preparation for blizzard-like conditions, I will be activating the State Emergency Operations Center and have directed state agencies to continue proactively preparing communities and roadways for this major storm," Cuomo said in a statement on Monday.

"We remain in constant contact with local officials in every region, as New York prepares to aggressively clear roads, provide personnel and storm equipment as needed, and offer immediate assistance to communities across the state. I strongly urge everyone to limit unnecessary travel on Tuesday, and if you must drive, please plan ahead, be careful, and stay safe.”

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority added that it will “continue to monitor the National Weather Service” and have direct access to a customized weather prediction service that provides updated weather forecasts.” Substantial MTA service changes are anticipated on Metro-North lines, with further information set to be released on Monday afternoon.

Cuomo noted that extra staff and specialized equipment will be utilized before and during the storm by Metro-North, with nearly 700 pieces of storm-fighting equipment set to be deployed, including up to 360 snowblowers, 35 pickup truck plows and seven rail-bound jets.

“Before a winter storm, snow fighting equipment is winterized, tested and positioned strategically throughout both railroads to start operation as soon as snow accumulations begin,” he said.

“Protective heat circuits are verified to be operational, air brake lines are purged of any moisture to prevent them from freezing, electric trains are fitted with special third rail shoes to prevent snow from accumulating, exposed shoes are treated with de-icer, and exposed couplers are covered to keep snow out.”

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