While some people are still recovering from the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, the first snowfall of the year is expected to leave two to five inches on the ground in Yorktown and Somers by Thursday morning.
The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning effective 1 p.m. Wednesday to 4 a.m. Thursday. Sustained winds in our area could reach 30 mph with gusts over 50 mph. Temperatures are expected to be around 31.
"Total daytime snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches is possible," NWS predicts. "A combination of snow, gusty winds and temperatures around freezing could make travel difficult at times, especially in higher elevations. This combination could also bring down trees and power lines."
Wednesday night wind gusts could reach 46 mph. and new snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches is possible. There is a chance of rain and snow before 11 a.m. on Thursday, then a chance of rain and little or no snow accumulation.
Just last week, thousands of people in Yorktown and Somers were in the dark after Hurricane Sandy hit, killing two young North Salem boys and taking down dozens of trees all over the area. Crews from New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) were still working to restore power over the weekend.
Con Edison, the utility company that continues to repair power lines damaged more than one week ago, said yesterday the high winds are a cause for concern.
There have been several cancellations in the area due to the storm – Lakeland, Yorktown and Somers school districts have cancelled all after school activities Wednesday in response to Nor'easter forecast.
Westchester County remains on full alert as it braces for the nor’easter, which is expected to bring strong gusty winds, snow and rain. The county’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains fully activated, as it has been since Oct. 29 in response to Hurricane Sandy.
"The same rules that applied to Sandy apply to this storm," County Executive Robert P. Astorino said. "I urge residents to use common sense and err on the side of caution. Sandy claimed three lives in Westchester and every precaution should be taken to ensure public safety. It’s best to stay indoors tonight. Any residents who remain without power should consider taking shelter with friends or relatives or in their local community warming shelter."
Astorino said the presidents of Con Edison and NYSEG have assured him the increased manpower from outside of the county that is working on restoring power will remain in Westchester during this latest storm.
Officers from the Department of Public Safety remain on 12-hour shifts to increase the manpower available to respond to emergencies on county parkways and to assist local municipalities as needed.
Editor's Note: Thanks to our readers for sending their pictures and video of today's snow storm. To upload your pictures on Patch, click on the green "Upload Photos and Videos" button above.
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