FIRST ONLINE

Cuomo: Maybe it's a good weekend to stay home?

Posted

It's rain. It's snow. It's wind. And it's something likely best kept outside, and you inside.

That's what Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Friday after a new winter storm formed off the Atlantic coast and starting dumping anything weather-wise it could throughout the northeast. 

While snowfall in the city has been minimal through mid-afternoon Friday in New York City, areas north have not been so lucky with heavy snow reported across upstate, according to the National Weather Service. In fact, some areas already have exceeded a foot of snow.  

Wind speeds have increased because a main low pressure system strengthened just off New Jersey, and those high winds are expected to continue through the afternoon hours today.

In fact, the weather service has extended a high wind warning throughout the greater New York City area until 6 a.m. on Saturday. Winds are shooting north at between 25 and 40 mph, with gusts of up to 60 mph. 

These winds can blow down trees and power lines, so widespread power outages are expected.

Cuomo has issued a travel advisory for all areas north of New York City, asking that travel be limited because of dangerous conditions. Also, tractor trailers, buses and motorcycles are banned from the Tappan Zee Bridge.

"With the threat of high winds and danverous driving conditions throughout this evening, I have issued a travel advisory so plows, utility crews and first responders are able to do their jobs and keep New Yorkers safe," Cuomo said, in a release. "We continue to work wot keep roads clear, and if you do not have to travel today, I encourage you to stay off the roads."

The major city airports remained opened as of Friday morning, Cuomo said, including John F. Kennedy and La Guardia. But there are massive delays and cancellations in effect. 

winter storm, Andrew Cuomo,

Comments