BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) – Storms battering areas across western New York caused Governor Andrew Cuomo to declare a state of emergency Tuesday.
That state of emergency applies to Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Franklin, Genesee, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, Wyoming and contiguous counties.
He signed it in via executive order Tuesday evening, saying he wants to help affected communities as they cope with substantial snowfall.
“This storm may persist until Friday morning with the potential for another two feet of snow,” Cuomo said. “New Yorkers in these areas should exercise extreme caution and stay off the roads until conditions are clearer and safer.”
The state of emergency title allows critical resources, which are normally restricted to state use, to be used by local governments. It also suspends laws and regulations that would otherwise impede their rapid response.
Currently, there are over 2,000 people in Erie County without power, and 9,537 across the state in the same situation. New York State Public Service Commission will extend its help to those without power. If you need assistance, their hotline is 1-800-342-3377.
The state has mobilized 526 plows, 74 large loaders, 1,247 operators and supervisors, 17 large snow blowers and four truck-mounted snow blowers to affected regions. They’ve also filled up their road salt stores.
