Due to the storm, a state of emergency was declared for large parts of New York WWTI

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WIVB/WSYR) – Several counties across New York have been placed under a state of emergency due to this weekend’s winter storm, Gov. Kathy Hochul said Friday.

A state of emergency was declared in Jefferson, Lewis and Oswego counties just before 2:45 p.m

“We expect there will be heavy snowfall over the next few days – that could lead to significant accumulation,” Hochul said. “Buffalo could be 4 to 6 inches tall. It’s three to four feet in Chautauqua and southern Erie, and up north it could be up to six feet in Watertown. I assume that I have already declared a state of emergency.”

Hochul says declaring a state of emergency gives the government an opportunity to assist with local snow plowing and debris removal.

“We are very involved in our local communities. But again, this is a very serious storm. People have become a bit complacent because the fall and winter have been quite mild so far. But I want everyone to take this seriously,” Hochul said.

Along with the declaration of a state of emergency, Hochul also announced a tandem and empty trailer ban from the Pennsylvania line to Interstate 390 via I-90 to Exit 53 and also for Route 219 to the Pennsylvania line.

“This is a common lake effect storm for us, but we encourage everyone to continue to monitor the situation. And I’ve done my part to make sure we have the National Guard on standby. “We have nearly 6,000 utility crews ready to restore power if necessary,” Hochul said.

For New Yorkers hitting the streets this weekend, the governor urges them to be prepared and check the weather forecast before traveling to their destination.

“Plan for everything that could happen, including if your vehicle goes off the road. Make sure you have enough gas in your tanks. Keep supplies in your car. Make sure your phone is well charged,” Hochul said. “Keep an eye on the weather forecast when you’re out and about.”

To see the full weather forecast in Central New York, click here.