Western New York, particularly Erie County, is no stranger to severe winter weather. Recent announcements from Governor Kathy Hochul and local authorities have highlighted the implementation of a full Travel Ban for passenger vehicles in Erie County, commencing at 9 p.m. Saturday. This decisive action is designed to allow essential plow crews the necessary time and space to effectively clear roadways overnight, ensuring safer conditions for everyone as quickly as possible. The travel ban situation is set to be reassessed at 6 a.m. on Sunday, providing a window for potential updates based on the evolving weather conditions.
Alt text: Snow plows working in tandem to clear a multi-lane highway during a winter storm, improving road conditions under a travel ban.
Adding to the severity, a complete ban on commercial traffic across all State, County, and local roads within Erie County, including a section of the New York State Thruway (between Exit 46 and the Pennsylvania State Line), also took effect at 9 p.m. Saturday. Crucially, this commercial travel ban is indefinite, underscoring the prolonged impact expected from the winter storm and the priority placed on safety and thorough road clearing before freight and larger vehicles resume movement.
Governor Hochul emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Forecasts predict the most dangerous winter storm conditions since the Christmas Blizzard of 2022.” This comparison to a recent, impactful weather event serves to underscore the potential risks and the rationale behind the stringent travel ban. Collaboration between state, county, and city leaders has been central to enacting this preventative measure, aiming to safeguard motorists from the predicted hazardous conditions.
Residents of Western New York are strongly advised to remain at home throughout the storm’s duration. Travel across affected areas is anticipated to be not only difficult but genuinely perilous due to life-threatening blizzard-like conditions expected throughout the weekend. The severity of the weather has even prompted the NFL to postpone the highly anticipated Bills-Steelers playoff game to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, January 15, demonstrating the widespread disruption and safety concerns associated with this weather event and the necessity of the travel ban.
For real-time updates and emergency alerts, New Yorkers are encouraged to subscribe to NY Alert (https://alert.ny.gov). This free service delivers critical emergency information directly to cell phones and computers, ensuring residents stay informed during rapidly changing situations like severe weather events and travel bans.
The weather forecast paints a picture of significant snowfall, with a widespread accumulation of 1 to 2 feet of heavy lake effect snow expected near Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, including cities like Buffalo and Watertown. Isolated areas may even experience higher snowfall amounts. Snowfall rates could reach an alarming three inches per hour, beginning Saturday night and persisting through Sunday morning. Adding to the blizzard conditions, strong winds are anticipated, with gusts up to 65 mph Saturday night in parts of Western NY and sustained winds of up to 40 mph throughout Sunday. Areas near Lake Ontario, including Jefferson, Lewis, and Oswego counties, will also face strong winds, gusting as high as 50 mph until Monday. These combined conditions of heavy snow and high winds create potentially life-threatening situations, compounded by frigid wind chills in the single digits starting Saturday night and continuing into the middle of the week. For a complete overview of weather alerts and forecasts, the National Weather Service website (https://alerts.weather.gov) is an essential resource.
Prior to the implementation of the travel ban, Governor Hochul declared a State of Emergency on Friday. This proactive measure was taken to warn and prepare New Yorkers for the potentially dangerous and life-threatening weather expected to impact communities along Lakes Erie and Ontario. The State of Emergency encompasses a wide range of counties: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Monroe, Niagara, Ontario, Orleans, Oswego, and Wyoming, highlighting the extensive area under threat from this severe winter storm and necessitating measures like the travel ban.
Ongoing Restrictions: Empty and Tandem Trucks
It’s important to note that even before the full travel ban, certain restrictions were already in place. A ban on empty trucks/trailers and all tandem trucks remains active on key routes, including:
- Thruway:
- I-90 Exit 46 – Pennsylvania State Line
- I-190 (South of the North Grand Island Bridge)
- NYSDOT Routes:
- Buffalo Skyway (NY 5)
- U.S. 219
- NY 400
- I-190 (North of the North Grand Island Bridge)
- I-290
- I-990
- Kensington Expressway (NY 33)
- I-86 in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties
These ongoing bans further emphasize the hazardous travel conditions and the comprehensive approach being taken to manage traffic and ensure safety during this severe weather event, complementing the wider travel ban.
Warming Shelters Available
Recognizing the potential for power outages and the need for safe refuge during the storm and travel ban, New York State has opened warming shelters starting at 5 p.m. These shelters provide essential resources such as cots, pillows, and blankets. Mental health counselors are also available at each site, offering support to individuals who may be experiencing stress or anxiety during this challenging time. The NY National Guard and the New York State Incident Management Team are managing these crucial facilities. Warming shelter locations include:
- Erie Community College (South Campus), 4041 Southwestern Blvd, Buffalo, NY 14203
- Windom Elementary School, 3870 Sheldon Rd, Orchard Park, NY 14127
- Orchard Park Middle School, 60 South Lincoln Ave, Orchard Park, NY 14127
The City of Buffalo is also operating additional shelters within the city. More information on city shelters can be found here. New York State is supplying water and MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat) for both state and city-run warming shelters, ensuring basic needs are met for those seeking refuge during the travel ban and storm.
Alt text: Interior view of a warming shelter with cots and people resting, providing a safe haven during a weather-related travel ban and power outages.
Search and Rescue Operations Ready
In preparation for potential emergencies arising from the severe weather and travel ban, New York has significantly boosted search and rescue resources in Western New York. This surge includes:
- 33 State-tracked vehicles
- 50 4×4 vehicles
- 25 military vehicles
Further resources are strategically positioned outside the storm area, ready for rapid deployment if needed. The state is also coordinating with snowmobile clubs to potentially enlist additional assistance, demonstrating a multi-faceted approach to emergency response during the travel ban and storm.
State Agency Activities: A Coordinated Response
Numerous New York State agencies are actively involved in responding to this severe weather event and supporting the travel ban, demonstrating a coordinated, statewide effort:
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New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES): Activated the State Emergency Operations Center in Albany to coordinate the statewide response. The Office of Emergency Management is in constant communication with local counterparts and is prepared to fulfill requests for assistance. State stockpiles are fully staffed and ready to deploy emergency response assets and shelter supplies as needed, supporting communities affected by the travel ban. The State Fire Mobilization and Mutual Aid Plan is activated, and the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control has deployed personnel and emergency response vehicles to the Buffalo Airport. The New York State Incident Management Team is on the ground in Western New York to assist with emergency management tasks related to the storm and travel ban.
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Division of Military and Naval Affairs: Mobilizing 100 Soldiers and Airmen with 25 vehicles from the New York National Guard to provide general support to Western New York, assisting with logistics and emergency support during the travel ban.
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New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT): Actively responding statewide with over 3,700 operators and supervisors available. Staff are organized into various response crews (flood response, debris removal, traffic signal repair, etc.). All residencies in impacted areas are staffed 24/7. NYSDOT has deployed additional staff and equipment to Western New York, including large snowplows, snowblowers, loaders, and a grader, to manage road clearing operations and the impact of the travel ban. Statewide assets include a vast fleet of snowplows, loaders, excavators, tow plows, snow blowers, and traffic signal trucks, all crucial for maintaining essential infrastructure during the travel ban. For real-time travel information, motorists should use 511 or visit https://www.511ny.org or the mobile site at m.511ny.org, New York State’s official traffic and travel information source, to stay updated on road closures and travel ban information.
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Thruway Authority: Prepared to respond with over 700 operators and supervisors statewide. Additional staff and snow-fighting equipment are being shifted from other divisions to Western New York. The Authority is closely monitoring the storm and has additional resources on standby. Statewide equipment includes a large number of plow trucks, tow plows, and loaders, along with a substantial supply of salt. Variable Message Signs and social media are being used to inform motorists about winter weather conditions on the Thruway and the travel ban. The Thruway Authority encourages downloading its mobile app for real-time traffic information and signing up for TRANSalert e-mails and following @ThruwayTraffic on X for the latest traffic updates related to the storm and travel ban.
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Department of Public Service (DPS): Electric utility companies have approximately 11,000 workers available statewide for response, repair, and restoration efforts. Utility emergency response plans are activated, and incident command structures are in place. DPS staff will track utility work and ensure appropriate staffing in the most impacted regions. If power service is interrupted, visit the DPS Utility Service Interruptions website for tips and information, crucial during a travel ban when people are confined to their homes.
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New York State Police: Monitoring weather conditions and deploying additional Troopers to impacted areas as needed. All State Police four-wheel drive and specialized vehicles, including snowmobiles and airboats, are ready for immediate response.
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New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC): DEC Emergency Management staff, police officers, Forest Rangers, and regional staff are on alert, monitoring the situation. DEC is coordinating resource deployment and has assets ready for potential impacts, including swift water rescue teams. DEC also reminds those responsible for snow removal to follow best practices to prevent flooding and water pollution, an important consideration even during a travel ban.
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New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation: State Park Police and park personnel are monitoring weather conditions. Response equipment is prepared, and sawyer crews are on standby for road clearing operations, contributing to the overall effort to lift the travel ban as soon as safely possible.
Safety Tips During the Travel Ban and Winter Storm
During this period of severe weather and travel ban, prioritizing safety is paramount. Here are essential safety tips:
Winter Weather Preparedness:
- Ensure snow removal equipment is serviced and ready. Use rock salt and sand for ice and traction.
- Winterize your home and have heating sources inspected annually.
- Maintain an adequate heating oil supply if applicable.
- Have safe emergency heating equipment and use it according to instructions.
- Install and check smoke alarms.
- Protect water pipes from freezing to prevent damage during the travel ban when access to repair services may be limited.
Safe Travel Advice (Though Travel is Discouraged During the Ban):
- Do not drive unless absolutely necessary during the travel ban.
- If essential travel is unavoidable (after the ban is lifted or for emergencies before), ensure your car is stocked with survival gear: blankets, shovel, flashlight, extra batteries, warm clothing, tire chains, booster cables, energy food, and a brightly colored cloth for signaling distress.
- Keep your cell phone charged for communication in case of emergencies during the travel ban.
- Clear your vehicle of ice and snow for good visibility.
- Increase following distance and drive slowly, adapting to road and weather conditions. Be especially aware of children who may be obscured by snowdrifts.
Power Outage Preparedness:
- For medications requiring refrigeration, consult your pharmacist about storage during outages.
- Freeze water in containers to help keep food cold in the freezer if power goes out.
- Have an alternative cooking source (camp stove, outdoor grill) and know how to use it safely outdoors.
- Consider a generator and ensure it’s correctly installed and used outdoors.
- Have extra blankets, coats, hats, and gloves available to stay warm during a power outage and travel ban.
- Back up computer files and turn off electronics when not in use to protect against surges.
- Know how to manually operate electric garage doors.
- Have alternate communication methods if your phone system relies on electricity.
If a Power Outage Occurs During the Travel Ban:
- Disconnect major appliances and electronics to prevent surge damage. Leave one light on to indicate power restoration. Use surge protectors.
- Report the outage to your utility provider and monitor local broadcasts for updates.
- Check on neighbors, especially those vulnerable or with access needs.
- Use flashlights only, not candles, for safety.
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food.
- Never use charcoal grills indoors or gas stoves for heating due to carbon monoxide risk.
- Dress in layers and minimize time outdoors in the cold. Be aware of hypothermia symptoms.
- Close off unused rooms to conserve heat during the travel ban.
Reporting Power Outages:
Contact your utility provider to report power outages (numbers provided in the original article and should be localized for the target audience if needed).
Heating Safety:
- Use safe alternative heat sources like fireplaces, wood/coal stoves, or portable space heaters, ensuring proper ventilation and following manufacturer instructions.
- Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
- Have fire extinguishers and working smoke detectors.
- If using kerosene heaters, use correct fuel, refuel outdoors when cool, maintain distance from flammables, and ensure ventilation.
Flood Safety (While Less Likely with Snow, Still Important):
- Know evacuation routes to high ground.
- Keep vehicles fueled. Gas stations may be impacted by power outages during a travel ban.
- Know your property’s flood risk level.
- Have waterproofing materials like sandbags and plastic sheeting available.
Flood Travel Safety:
- Never drive on flooded roads. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
- Even six inches of moving water is dangerous.
- Don’t underestimate fast-moving water. Two feet can float a car.
- If trapped in a car in rising water, abandon it and seek higher ground.
- Do not drive around road barriers during a travel ban and potential flooding.
For more comprehensive winter safety advice, visit https://dhses.ny.gov/safety. For non-emergency services in NYS, call 211 or visit 211nys.org.
About the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services:
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) is dedicated to leadership, coordination, and support for disaster and emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. Stay informed by following @NYSDHSES on social media and visiting dhses.ny.gov for further information and updates, especially during events like a travel ban.
