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The major winter storm has paralyzed travel across New York's Capital Region Monday (January 26), prompting officials to urge residents to stay home as snow accumulations reach up to two feet in some areas.
The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) announced it will maintain regular Monday service schedules but warned riders to expect weather-related delays and detours. According to CDTA's storm advisory, the Northway Xpress (NX) and Thruway Xpress (TX) commuter services will not operate today due to the State of Emergency declared by New York State.
"We want to remind customers to allow extra time for their travel during the anticipated winter weather," a CDTA spokesperson said. "The safety of our operators, customers, and fleet is our top priority."
In a statement Sunday, Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to take precautions: "Snow has begun falling across much of the state and we are anticipating the longest cold stretch and the highest snow totals that we've had in several years. New Yorkers should avoid any unnecessary travel allowing first responders and plow crews to do their jobs."
The storm has significantly impacted air travel at Albany International Airport, with numerous flights delayed or canceled. Amtrak has also modified its service schedule in response to the severe weather conditions.
Several counties implemented travel restrictions over the weekend. NEWS10 reports that Columbia County issued an emergency travel ban beginning Sunday at noon, prohibiting all non-essential vehicular travel until 11 a.m. Monday. While Saratoga County's travel restrictions have been lifted, officials still urge extreme caution on the roads.
The New York State Department of Transportation has required all commercial vehicles to travel exclusively in the right lane on all state roads, including the New York State Thruway. A travel ban for Long Combination Tandem Vehicles on the Thruway remains in effect.
State agencies have mobilized significant resources, with nearly 3,700 supervisors and operators available statewide for snow and ice operations. The Thruway Authority has deployed 685 operators and supervisors with equipment including 361 large and medium plows and 11 tow plows.
Weather forecasts predict the storm will continue through Monday afternoon, with temperatures remaining low throughout the week, creating potential for ice development on roadways.