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Public Information Statement 
National Weather Service Albany NY 
800 AM EDT Sat Nov 2 2024

...Winter Weather Awareness Week Concludes Today...

Winter in New York can bring some of nature's most severe 
conditions. This week we reviewed the meteorology and hazards 
associated with heavy snowfall, lake effect snow, nor'easters, 
blizzards, high winds, snow squalls, ice storms, winter flooding 
and cold temperatures. 

Preparation is the key to keep safe this winter. By preparing now, 
you can be ready when severe winter weather threatens. 

Stay informed. Hazardous weather outlooks are issued to give you a 
heads up for the possibility of severe winter conditions out to 7 
days. Winter storm watches, high wind watches and extreme cold 
watches are issued when severe weather conditions are possible in 
the next one to three days, while winter storm warnings, high wind 
warnings and extreme cold warnings are issued when severe weather 
conditions have begun or will begin within the next 24 hours.

Stay up to date with the latest forecasts. We issue frequent updates 
for winter weather that serve to give you the most up to the minute 
and detailed weather information available.

Fully check and winterize your car or truck. Check your tires, 
brakes, windshield wipers, windshield fluid, lights, battery, and 
antifreeze.

If possible, avoid travel during winter storms. Most fatalities due 
to ice and snow occur in motor vehicle accidents. When driving on 
snow and ice covered roads, slow down. If you have the option to 
telework or work from home, snowy or icy days are good days to do so.

Be alert for rapidly changing conditions. Lake effect snow bands, 
snow squalls and localized areas of blowing snow can lead to rapid 
changes in road conditions and visibility. 

Dress for the weather when venturing outdoors to prevent frostbite 
and hypothermia.

At home, be prepared for the possibility you may lose power and 
heat. The greatest threat from ice storms, heavy wet snow and high 
winds are power outages. Be ready with flashlights, battery powered 
radio, extra batteries and water. Have enough high energy foods that 
require no cooking or refrigeration, extra medicine, baby items, and 
first aid supplies on hand to last several days. 

Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned now. Emergency heat sources
such as fireplaces, wood stoves and space heaters need to be used 
properly to prevent fire, and ventilated properly to prevent carbon 
monoxide poisoning. 

Never run a generator indoors or in an attached garage. Always make 
sure your smoke alarms, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide 
detectors are in working order.

If you need information on paying for energy to stay warm in your home 
this winter, visit your state energy assistance program website.

Do not forget about your pets in the winter. Make sure they have plenty of 
food and water and shelter from the cold. 

When you need timely information, you can get it on NOAA Weather 
Radio. Weather radios are inexpensive and alert you of the latest 
hazards. The Albany National Weather Service Forecast Office 
broadcasts twenty four hours a day from stations in New York 
and western New England.

Your Albany National Weather Service forecast information is also 
available online and on social media.  You can reach us at 
weather.gov/albany, on facebook at NWSAlbany and tweet along on X 
@nwsalbany. 

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NWS Albany