NEW YORK (WKBW) — New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Saturday he has directed state agencies to prepare for strong winds expected throughout Western New York, the Finger Lakes and the North Country that could cause power outages and property damage.
A very strong area of low pressure will move through Western New York on Sunday bringing widespread rain to the region. Along with the rain we can expect winds to be very strong.
"With forecasts calling for strong winds to impact much of New York on Sunday, state agencies stand ready to support our local partners with any resources they may need and will remain in contact with utility companies throughout the weekend to ensure any power outages are addressed as quickly as possible, " Governor Cuomo said. "New Yorkers should also be sure to take the precautions necessary for protecting themselves, their families and their property."
The state says some of the following preparations have been made:
Department of Transportation
The Department of Transportation will be activating its Incident Command System and is prepared to respond with 3,473 supervisors and operators. Statewide assets are as follows:
- 1,567 large dump trucks
- 188 medium duty trucks
- 312 large loaders
- 21 graders
- 3 dozers
- 17 vacuum trucks with sewer jet
- 32 tracked excavators
- 48 wheeled excavators
- 15 tree crew bucket trucks
- 33 traffic signal trucks
- 75 chippers, 10" (min) capacity
Thruway Authority
The Thruway Authority has 663 operators and supervisors prepared to respond to any wind related issues across the state with small to medium sized excavators, plow/dump trucks, large loaders, portable VMS boards, portable light towers, smaller generators, smaller pumps and equipment hauling trailers, as well as signage and other traffic control devices available for any detours or closures. Variable Message Signs, Highway Advisory Radio and social media are utilized to alert motorists of weather conditions on the Thruway.
Department of Public Service
New York's utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available to engage in damage assessment, response and restoration efforts across New York State. Department of Public Service staff will track the utilities' work throughout the storm event and will ensure the utilities shift the appropriate staffing to the regions anticipated to experience the greatest impact.
In the City of Buffalo due to the high wind warning Erie Basin Marina, Bird Island Pier, Broderick Park and Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park will be closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic beginning Sunday at 9 a.m.
