The Catskill Chronicle

NEW YORK STATE (February 29, 2012) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today ordered the activation of the New York State Emergency Operations Center in Albany as a winter storm swept across the state.
Beginning Wednesday morning, the winter storm has brought moderate to heavy snow and some ice to parts of the state. New Yorkers should monitor weather conditions, stay tuned to local radio and television stations or to NOAA weather radio for the latest information, plan their activities accordingly, and be particularly cautious while driving.

Governor Cuomo activated the State Emergency Operations Center at 2:00pm today to monitor the storm and any emergency needs. Representatives from state agencies are present to coordinate storm response efforts, including the State Police, Department of Transportation, Thruway Authority, Office of Fire Prevention and Control, Division of Military and Naval Affairs, Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Department of Health.

"Winter weather is finally here for many parts of the state, so as a precaution we have opened the emergency operation center to coordinate response efforts," Governor Cuomo said. "I also remind people that roads may be covered by ice and snow, so I urge everyone to be careful when driving and be aware of the plows."

Another round of snow is expected on Thursday, which could produce additional accumulation across eastern New York State.

Steps taken to ensure readiness include:

Power:

· To ensure a prompt response to power outages, the Public Service Commission has been holding storm planning calls with the electric utilities. Crews are prepared to work around the clock to repair outages. National Grid is relocating 15 crews from Western New York to its Central Region and other utilities may also move additional crews into affected areas as needed. The Public Service Commission call center will be operational throughout  the storm to provide health and safety information, including location of shelters, estimated times of restoration, and ensuring notification of vulnerable customers, such as Life Support customer.

Roads:

More than 1,700 plow trucks staffed by Department of Transportation, Thruway Authority, and Bridge Authority personnel have been mobilized in affected areas, with more than 200 additional trucks on standby.

More than 50 front end loaders, 15 large chippers, 200 chainsaws, and 150 portable generators are available to clear obstructed roadways.

Approximately 200 lane miles of the Thruway system have been pretreated.

Crews and equipment have been deployed to the state’s major bridges.

Public Safety:

40 4X4 vehicles, 45 ATVs, and 52 snowmobiles staffed by DEC, State Police, and Division of Military and Naval Affairs personnel are ready to be deployed as needed.

More than 550 State Troopers, Environmental Conservation Officers, and DEC Forest Rangers have been deployed and are prepared to respond to any incidents. Additional personnel are on standby.

For more information on winter storm safety and preparedness, visit www.dhses.ny.gov/oem.