Christmas Eve Storm Set to Bring Heavy Rain, Lake Effect Snow and High Winds to Parts of New York State

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation sent this bulletin on 12/23/2020 04:25 PM EST
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Governor Cuomo Directs State Agencies to Prepare for Christmas Eve Storm Bringing Heavy Rain, Lake Effect Snow and High Winds

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today urged New Yorkers to prepare for a weather system expected to move through the state beginning Christmas Eve and bring a mix of heavy rain and high winds to the eastern and southern parts of the state, as well as heavy lake effect snow in Western New York. In the Capital, Mid-Hudson, Mohawk Valley, New York City and Long Island Regions, flooding may be possible with up to four inches of rain combining with existing snow and snowmelt. The storm could also bring potential wind gusts of up to 60 mph to much of downstate which may result in power outages and dangerous travel conditions, especially for high profile vehicles. In Western New York, travel conditions could be also difficult with heavy lake effect snow possible with accumulations of more than a foot of snow and wind gusts of up to 35 mph predicted in some areas.

A passing cold front is forecast to bring heavy rain, gusty winds, and the possibility of flooding beginning Thursday evening and continuing through Friday. In the Capital, Mid-Hudson, Mohawk Valley, New York City, and Long Island Regions, 1 to 4 inches of rainfall is expected by the end of the storm on Friday. Additionally, winds in the New York City and Long Island Regions could gust as high as 60 mph during the overnight hours and on Friday. In Western New York, lake effect snowfall amounts ranging from 6 to 12 inches are possible. There is also the potential for freezing conditions on the roads on Friday morning as colder air moves in from the west.

Flood Watches, High Wind Watches and Winter Storm Watches have been issued for locations across the state. For a complete listing of weather watches, warnings, advisories and latest forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website.

DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be impacted by severe weather. All available assets are positioned to assist with any emergency response.

For more information and for safe travel tips, read the entire news release.