Buffalo, N.Y. – Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency on Saturday for 11 counties in Western New York and the North Country. This declaration was made in response to heavy lake-effect snow starting to fall in the designated areas, prompting concerns over poor visibility and dangerous travel conditions on major highways.

The affected counties include Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, Allegany, Erie, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Genessee, Herkimer, and Wyoming. Hochul announced the state of emergencies via a tweet, stating that the declarations are effective immediately.

In anticipation of the severe weather conditions, over 100 National Guard members have been deployed to Western New York. This proactive measure aims to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in the impacted regions.

One particular area of concern is Orchard Park, home to the Buffalo Bills’ stadium. Reports suggest that up to three to four feet of snow could accumulate in this area, posing potential challenges for Sunday’s scheduled game. Erie County, where the stadium is located, is among those placed under a state of emergency.

In the North Country near Watertown, forecasters predict the possibility of up to five feet of snowfall. This significant snow accumulation is expected to disrupt post-Thanksgiving travel plans and further exacerbate already hazardous road conditions.

To mitigate risks associated with the impending snowstorm, certain restrictions have been imposed on highways. Commercial vehicles and tandem trucks have been prohibited from various sections of the New York Thruway, Interstate 86, and U.S. Route 219.

The ban encompasses the New York Thruway (Interstate-90) from the Pennsylvania line to Buffalo (Exit 53), Interstate 86 from the Pennsylvania state line to Interstate 390, and U.S. Route 219 from the Pennsylvania line north to the Thruway. These measures are aimed at ensuring the safety of all motorists and preventing potential accidents during the severe weather conditions.

Overall, the state of emergency and subsequent actions taken aim to minimize disruptions and safeguard the well-being of residents in the affected counties. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as the snowstorm progresses.