New York Gov. Kathy Hochul says the state is getting a handle on the winter storm as it begins to die down.
She said the Department of Transportation has more than 1,800 plows and 328 loaders spread across the state. That's on top of more than 350 plows being used by the Thruway Authority, as well as 100,000 tons of road salt.
Even with this, the governor is urging safety.
So now we’re up to 46k Ulster Co, #NY without power. Trees and power lines are all over the place. This update is airing on TV at noon, but you get to see it now. #icestorm2022 #IceAge pic.twitter.com/mi3dFELjhI
— Ben Nandy (@BenNandyNews) February 4, 2022
"It is a serious matter and we're not out of the danger zone yet," Hochul said. "And that is the seriousness of which we're approaching this to let everyone know we have the resources on the ground, but the weather is wildly unpredictable."
The morning ice accumulations have led to a lot of power outages. The state said additional crews have been sent to the Hudson Valley to help workers restore power in a quickly manner, especially in Ulster County.
The rainy conditions made it tough for crews in Orange County to pre-treat roads, and the county's emergency management officials say that's not the only issue they faced as the storm hit.
Seeing a few cars braving these icy road conditions here in Orange County like our Spectrum friends here. OCEM Commissioner Casey tells me there aren’t any major accidents on the roads but he still wants drivers to stay home; he says even 4WD is no match for the ice. @SPECNews1HV pic.twitter.com/IceQhiC4l6
— Olivia Leach (@OliviaLeachNews) February 4, 2022
Officials say the ice, and what it could mean for power lines, is a big area of concern for them.
Sullivan County, while not reporting outages, is still prepared if ice continues to build up, according to officials.
“We do ask the public, if they encounter any downed lines, that they avoid them," said Commissioner of Public Safety Tom Farney. "[The] recommendation is 30 feet distance from them. If you’re operating a vehicle, we ask that you don’t try to drive around them or over them; honestly, the best thing to do is avoid travel at all. If you can stay home, stay home."
In Dutchess County, the northwest areas have been hit the hardest due to ice build-up. Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro stressed caution if you're going out.
"Most roadways are passable," he said. "I'd be more alert on some of the back roads ... but again, Northwest Dutchess [is] feeling the pain a little bit more, and significantly more ice buildup than central or southern areas."
Molinaro added that 911 call volume is relatively low, and advises the public to stay home.