Thread by @EdDrantch

HOCHUL: There is a complication with utilities -- there is a storm challenge, keeping workers from doing their jobs

State Police launched "Strike Team" to go into high impact areas -- nursing homes, etc -- to clear snow and restore heat

Working on bringing emergency provisions to people

Social service orgs are coordinating with Red Cross and agencies on the ground.

SAFETY MESSAGING: Condition in #Buffalo are treacherous and dangerous. It is "far too cold to be outside."

If you are without power, it's safer inside than outside.

Wear loose fitting, layered clothing.

Stay in one room - huddle together to maintain warmth

If you are in a car - stay in the car.

If you can put bright color fabric on outside cars, do that, so you're noticed by search and rescue crews

Run car for ten min every hour to stay warm.

Hundreds of vehicles have been stranded, across WNY, but they are working to bring those folks to safety.

DOT working 24/7 and is making progress

Additional loaders, bulldozers, mechanics have been brought in for search and rescue.

Additional snow fighting equipment has been brought in, too.

CLOSED:
Rt 5
400
219
290
190
Skyway

Closures are in place until further notice so they can make sure they can clear roads.

33 has cars stuck

NYSP: response we're seeing is due to planning and preparation.

Assets were brought into WNY ahead of the storm, with partners in National Guard

Visibility became life threatening issue