Governor Andrew Cuomo has declared a state of emergency for most of Western New York.
"We are preparing for a truly extraordinary winter weather event," said Governor Cuomo during a conference call late Monday afternoon. "This storm promises to be truly difficult and dangerous."
The storm is expected to last 36 hours. In heavy Lake Snow areas snow is expected to fall at a rate of four inches an hour. Winds will gust up to 40-miles-per-hour causing blowing and drifting snow and poor visibility for travel.
"The combination, we believe, is going to be challenging and dangerous," said Governor Cuomo. "I’m also activating the incident response force of the National Guard, including 208 national guard personal who will be joining the team along with Humvee snow removal equipment."
"I've been in contact with (Erie) County Executive Mark Poloncarz. I've been in contact with (Buffalo) Mayor Byron Brown, making sure we are coordinate on all levels."
The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for Erie, Wyoming and Genesee Counties until 6 a.m. Wednesday. Listen to WBFO for updates on changing weather conditions.
The governor has ordered 420 plows to be deployed to the Western New York region, as well as more than 1,ooo personnel.