Encourages Residents To Limit Travel And Have Emergency Preparedness Items on Hand

Kingston, NY – At the Ulster County Department of Public Works, County Executive Mike Hein reviewed Ulster County’s preparedness for the impending snowstorm which is slated to reach the Hudson Valley this afternoon and last through Wednesday.  The snowstorm is expected to be at its peak tonight through Tuesday morning with the Hudson Valley seeing potentially 2-3 inches per hour with brief bursts over 3 inches per hour possible.  There are expected to be reduced visibilities, near zero at times, with blowing and drifting snow.   Snow fall is to taper off on Tuesday afternoon and evening.  To report a power outage residents can contact: NYSEG at 1-800-572-1131 or 607-431-9122; Central Hudson at 845-452-2700 or 1-800-527-2714 or Text "Out" to 236483; or in the case of an emergency call 911. 

“We are ready to respond to the anticipated snowstorm and we will have all hands on deck, with 46 County plows clearing and unexpected during this time of year.  We’re budgeted for this and I know our DPW crews will do an outstanding job on our roadways as always.  I encourage our residents to remain off the roads throughout the duration of the storm and to be prepared with emergency items such as food, water and batteries.  It is also critically important to check on our neighbors in need during events like this.  I have opened the Warming Center at the Clinton Avenue United Methodist Church for those individuals in need of shelter and they can be reached at 845-331-7188 and families in need of shelter can contact the Family of Woodstock at 845-338-2370.” 

The County executive reminds Ulster County residents to be prepared in their own homes and encourages everyone to:

·         Stay off the roads during and right after the storm to allow the State, County, Town and the City of Kingston DPW crews to do their job;

·         Have food and water on hand;

·         Have a battery-powered radio to keep informed of the status of the storm;

·         Have a flashlight and fresh batteries handy; and

·         Fill your tub with water as an added reserve.

“The National Weather Service is predicting 10-14 inches of snow across Ulster County,” said Steven J. Peterson, Director of Ulster County Emergency Communications.  “Significant icing should not be an issue with this storm as the snow will be of a dry consistency.  Please avoid unnecessary travel during the storm and allow highway crews to complete clearing the roads.” 

In addition, Ulster County Area Transportation (UCAT) services will be suspended at 6:00 P.M. this evening and will resume depending on conditions.  Please check the UCAT website http://ulstercountyny.gov/ucat/ulster-county-area-transit or their facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UlsterCountyAreaTransit?sk=wall.  For emergency updates, pleases visit the Ulster County Website at www.UlsterCountyNY.gov.