New York governor Andrew Cuomo has declared a state of emergency
across New York as a major winter storm has already started to bring heavy
snow, sub-zero temperatures, and high winds across the state, an official
statement said. A state of emergency mobilises resources to local governments
that otherwise are restricted to state use only, and allows the governor to
suspend laws and regulations that would impede rapid response, Xinhua reported
Thursday citing the statement. The governor urged New Yorkers to avoid
travelling and tay inside their homes until the worst of the storm has passed.
"As this winter storm unfolds, bringing heavy snow and high winds to many
parts of the state, I strongly urge all New Yorkers to exercise caution, avoid
travel, and stay indoors," Cuomo said.
The four New York City airports are open, but airlines are
operating on a significantly reduced schedule, with more than 412 flights
cancelled as of mid-afternoon. Crews are applying anti-icing chemicals to
runways and taxiways to keep them free of ice, said the governor's Office. In
the event that some travellers become stranded, airport personnel are preparing
cots, blankets and other essentials to assist customers. The Metropolitan
Transportation Authority advises customers that cold temperatures and blowing
snow may require suspension of some portions of the region's bus and commuter
train operations, in order to protect customers and employees. The New York
State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) and New York State Thruway
Authority said ploughs are available state-wide to clear snow and treat roads
with salt.
