Governor Kathy Hochul directed the State Department of Environmental Conservation to issue the watch after consulting with the State Drought Management Task Force and federal partner agencies.

New York State is encouraging residents in affected counties, particularly those dependent on private groundwater wells, to conserve water whenever possible during the coming weeks.

A watch is the first of four levels of State drought advisories, which are watch, warning, emergency, and disaster. No mandatory restrictions are in place under a drought watch.

While few public water supply challenges have been reported due to dry conditions, below-normal precipitation during the last three months, low streamflows, and low groundwater levels prompted the need for action to ensure adequate public water supplies. Local public water suppliers are urged to assess the current situation, promote voluntary conservation, and take appropriate actions to manage risk.

DEC and U.S. Geological Survey are partners in evaluating hydrologic conditions across New York State. Observed precipitation has been less than normal with shortfalls of two to six inches common over the last 90 days. The dry weather began in the spring and is beginning to significantly affect other metrics. Stream flows and groundwater levels are well below normal throughout much of the affected regions. Groundwater levels have been declining over the past few months and they are not expected to improve in the immediate future due to the existing precipitation deficit.

The National Weather Service outlook for the remainder of the summer predicts above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation.

To protect water resources, homeowners are encouraged to voluntarily reduce outdoor water use and follow these tips:
• Water lawns only when necessary, choose watering methods that avoid waste, and water in the early morning to reduce evaporation and maximize soil hydration;
• Reuse water collected in rain barrels, dehumidifiers, or air conditioners to water plants;
• Raise lawn mower cutting heights. Longer grass is healthier with stronger roots and needs less water;
• Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks; and
• Fix leaking pipes, hoses, and faucets.

For more tips, visit the DEC’s webpage at http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/5009.html.

For more information about drought in New York, go to: https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/5011.html

The National weather service has issued a Winter Storm Warning from 1 a.m. Tuesday until 1 p.m. Wednesday.

Forecasters say total snow accumulations of 8 to 15 inches could fall during the 36-hour period, with the greatest amounts expected along the Chautauqua Ridge and southern Erie county areas. In addition to snow, we could also see Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.

Travel could become very difficult and the winter weather conditions could impact the morning and evening commutes both Tuesday and Wednesday.

The High winds began moving into the area Sunday morning, and by 4 p.m. the winds reached the height of their power with strong gusts blowing over trees and knocking down limbs, creating widespread outages in various pockets across Chautauqua County.

The National Weather Service in Buffalo had issued a high wind warning over the weekend and said some wind gusts were expected to reach as high as 50 to 65 miles per hour throughout the day. The NWS reported Monday that the highest recorded wind gust in the region for Sunday was in Fredonia at 69 mph at 8 p.m.

In the Jamestown area, power was knocked out in several different areas of the city and nearby Celoron and Falconer, with crews and supervisors from the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities working through the night to return power. The BPU Water Division advises that water customers may notice widespread discolored water as a result of the outages.

By 10:30 a.m. Monday, the BPU noted that while the majority of its customers are back in power, it still had areas in which there was no electricity, mainly due to major tree damage on wires.

“As trees are cut and moved out of the way, our crews can continue to replace power lines in these sporadic areas,” explained BPU communications director Rebecca Robbins. “Each crew is working one situation at a time, and we have other employees out investigating. We hope customers who remain without electricity can be assured that we are at work and will be at work until everyone is restored.”

National Grid also reported widespread outages in nearly every service area of the county, with the largest number of people affected in the town of Ellery, Harmony, and North Harmony. But there were also smaller outages reported in the Frewsburg, Kiantone, Busti, and Gerry – along with nearly every other township in the county.

Crews with National Grid are expected to continue to work on restoring power to those areas Monday morning and afternoon.

In addition to the high wind, heavy rainfall also fell at times during the day on Sunday and the showers are expected to continue Monday as crews work to restore power.

A Polar vortex is moving into Southern Canada and much of the eastern United States, bringing winter-like cold across the eastern half of the nation with some snow also likely in the Northeast.

As a result, Mother’s Day could feel more like St. Patrick’s Day in some areas before a gradual recovery occurs next week.

In some areas – including Chautauqua County – a coating or more of snow is possible. But even in places that won’t see snow, temperatures will still sit some 20 degrees or more below average as a strong cold front slides all the way down near the Gulf Coast. The National Weather Service in Buffalo says temperatures in the Jamestown area will be around 30 degrees for Thursday night and will likely drop down to the mid 20s on Friday night. There’s also a good chance for snow showers from Friday through Sunday.

Forecasters say frost could even visit places such as northern Georgia and the western Carolinas late this weekend.

For Chautauqua County, forecasters say residents should plan for a prolonged period of freezing temperatures at night late this week through the middle of next week. Snow showers Friday night through Saturday night will produce minimal accumulation, but will result in sharply reduced visibility at times.

BUFFALO – We may already be nearly a month into the spring season, but old man winter still has a slight hold on the region.

After seeing snowfall on Thursday that was more fitting for January than mid April, areas Chautauqua County will likely see more of the same later Friday afternoon and into the evening.

The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a winter weather advisory from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. for the western southern tier, with total snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches expected mainly across higher terrain.

Forecasters say motorists can plan on slippery road conditions and reduced visibility this afternoon and evening. Anyone who is traveling in winter weather conditions is advised to slow down and use caution.

For Chautauqua County, total snow accumulations of 1 to 2 feet are expected, with some winds gusting as high as 55 mph. The conditions will result in extensive blowing and drifting snow. Specifically for Jamestown, the area will likely see periods of blowing snow throughout the day on Thursday with total snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches possible.

Due to the blizzard warning, all school districts in the area are closed were closed for Thursday, along with some government offices and services.

School Closings included Jamestown, Falconer, Frewsburg, Southwestern, Bethel Baptist,  Bemus Point, Cassadaga Valley, Chautauqua Lake, and Panama – among others.  Also the Jamestown Boys and Girls Club and Infinity Visual and Performing Arts were closed for Thursday and the Soup and a Song Fundraiser scheduled for Thursday night at the St. Susan Center was also postponed and will be rescheduled for a later date.

For local government, Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist announced that City Hall was open on Thursday but that city court had been cancelled. Also the County Clerk’s Office in Mayville along with the County Legislature Office and the County DMV Office were closed for the day. some CARTS Routes were also cancelled.

On Wednesday Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel put out a reminder about driving safely during the blizzard warning.

“We have been fortunate to have some warmer weather this past week but with significant snowfall expected to return tonight, I ask that county residents please use caution and remember to slow down if road conditions and visibility are poor,” said Wendel. “Our Chautauqua County Office of Emergency Services, Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office and Chautauqua County Department of Public Facilities Division of Transportation are prepared for this storm and I remind residents that if they must travel to please be careful.”

Pictured above, one of the snowplows operated by the Chautauqua County Department of Public Facilities. (Image courtesy of Chautauqua County Executive’s Office)

Also on Wednesday night, Chautauqua County Department of Public facilities Director Brad Bentley echoed Wendel’s reminder during the monthly Chautauqua County Legislature meeting.

“We’ve had some really good weather recently and when that happens there’s a tendency by the public to forget how to drive in winter weather. The next few days are probably going to be difficult and we’re hearing about blizzard-like conditions so we’re taking this very seriously,” Bentley said. “The DPF is ready, as we always are, to take care of the roads, but I want the public to drive safely and slowly. If you don’t have to go out, don’t go out. If you do, leave some room behind our plows. They have a difficult job seeing in this weather and they’re the ones out there trying to clear the roads. If you’re behind them, stay back from them.”

During the blizzard warning and anytime there is winter weather in the area, motorists are reminded to:

• Postpone or cancel non-essential trips if travel conditions are hazardous and obey travel bans;
• Clean off all snow and ice from their vehicles by making sure snow and frost is removed from the windshield, windows and side mirrors; compacted snow is removed from the wheel wells; and snow is removed from the headlights and taillights so other drivers can see you.
• Reduce their speeds when roads are slick or visibility is reduced, and turn on their headlights so other drivers can see you;
• Keep parked vehicles off the roadways and shoulders of the road;
• Update the emergency kit in their vehicles so it includes a shovel, snowbrush, windshield scraper, reflective vest, flashlight, battery powered radio, extra batteries, cell phone charger or battery pack, water, snack food, matches, first aid kit with a pocket knife, necessary medications, blankets, tow chain or rope, road salt and sand, booster cables, emergency flares, florescent distress flag, and extra hats, socks and mittens;
• Remember to bring a cell phone when travelling so it can be used in case of an emergency;
• Call the Sheriff’s Office or other law enforcement agencies to notify them if your vehicle breaks down on the side of the road; and
• Keep the gas tank at least half full to prevent the fuel line from freezing.

Source: National Weather Service

BUFFALO – The weather has been unseasonable mild the past week in the Jamestown area, but it will be making a return to more winter-like conditions starting overnight and continuing for the remainder of the week.

The National Weather Service in Buffalo  has issued a Lake Effect Snow Warning from 10 p.m. Wednesday until 6 p.m. Saturday for all of Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Southern Erie Counties.

Forecasters say a long duration of heavy lake effect snow expected during that time period with total snow accumulations of 1 to 2 feet expected, with locally higher amounts possible in the most persistent lake snow areas.

Snowfall rates may reach 1 to 2 inches per hour at times. Winds could also gust as high as 45 to 50 mph resulting in significant blowing and drifting snow. Travel will become be very difficult to impossible with very poor visibility and deep snow cover on roads. The hazardous conditions will greatly impact the morning and evening commutes both Thursday and Friday.

Forecasters say additional snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches are expected for Tuesday in the most persistent snow areas of Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties. By late afternoon we should see things clearing up temporarily, although another round of snow will settle into the area overnight.

Forecasters say for the Winter Storm Watch that was initially issued for the area has now been upgraded to a Lake Effect Snow Warning. The warning begins at  1 a.m. Wednesday and will include heavy lake effect snow is possible with total snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches possible in the most persistent lake snows.

Winds could gust as high as 35 mph Wednesday and Wednesday night, creating areas of blowing and drifting snow.

Forecasters say travel could be very difficult Wednesday night into Thursday morning, with areas of blowing snow significantly reducing visibility.

As a result of the winter weather across the region, Governor Cuomo directed state agencies to prepare for a potentially hazardous morning commutes today across Upstate New York.

Pictured above, one of the snowplows operated by the Chautauqua County Department of Public Facilities. (Image courtesy of Chautauqua County Executive’s Office)

BUFFALO – The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Most of Western New York, including Chautauqua County. The warning is in effect from 11 a.m. Monday until 6 a.m. Tuesday.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service say total snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected in southern Chautauqua County – including Jamestown – while 6 to 10 inches can be expected in northern Chautauqua County and in Erie County.

Conditions will deteriorate during the day Monday, with the heaviest snowfall rates and worst travel from late Monday afternoon through Monday night.

As a result of the weather, Governor Andrew Cuomo is urging New Yorkers to be prepared. Rapidly dropping temperatures and heavy snowfall will result in slick, snow-covered roads and treacherous driving conditions.  In addition, county officials are reminding residents about precautions to take.

“Drivers should slow down and use caution when traveling on slick or snow-covered roads during the winter,” said Chautauqua County Sheriff James Quattrone. “It is always best to plan ahead and account for extra travel time if you absolutely must drive during adverse weather conditions.”

Drivers are reminded to:

• Postpone or cancel non-essential trips if travel conditions are hazardous and obey travel bans;
• Clean off all snow and ice from their vehicles by making sure snow and frost is removed from the windshield, windows and side mirrors; compacted snow is removed from the wheel wells; and snow is removed from the headlights and taillights so other drivers can see you.
• Reduce their speeds when roads are slick or visibility is reduced, and turn on their headlights so other drivers can see you;
• Keep parked vehicles off the roadways and shoulders of the road;
• Update the emergency kit in their vehicles so it includes a shovel, snowbrush, windshield scraper, reflective vest, flashlight, battery powered radio, extra batteries, cell phone charger or battery pack, water, snack food, matches, first aid kit with a pocket knife, necessary medications, blankets, tow chain or rope, road salt and sand, booster cables, emergency flares, florescent distress flag, and extra hats, socks and mittens;
• Remember to bring a cell phone when travelling so it can be used in case of an emergency;
• Call the Sheriff’s Office or other law enforcement agencies to notify them if your vehicle breaks down on the side of the road; and
• Keep the gas tank at least half full to prevent the fuel line from freezing.

The Chautauqua County Department of Public Facilities Division of Transportation will also be out plowing and salting county-owned roads.

“While county plow operators are attempting to make our roadways safe, I encourage drivers to please not add to the hazards of wintertime driving,” said Brad Bentley, Department of Public Facilities Director. “Drivers should always use extra caution near snowplows by reducing their speed and keeping a safe distance.”

Drivers are required to stay at least 200 feet behind a snowplow. If drivers must pass a snowplow, they should use caution as snowplows can create a cloud of snow that can obscure vision and the road conditions in front of the plow will likely be worse.

The Department of Public Facilities also encourages residents to clear snow from around their mailboxes and inspect and, if necessary, replace their mailbox posts to ensure they can withstand winter conditions. Mailboxes physically hit and damaged by snowplows will be repaired, but mailboxes that break from the force of the snow coming off the plow will not be fixed.

In addition, when clearing your driveway, it is unlawful to push or brush snow into the roadway. This creates a dangerous situation for motorists.

“By giving our area plow drivers room to clear the roads, being respectful and patient when we are travelling behind a plow, and using caution during adverse travel conditions, we can all help create a safe winter driving season,” said George Borrello, Chautauqua County Executive. “I also urge residents to check in on neighbors, especially the elderly, who may be more at risk during heavy snow events and frigid temperatures.”

Significant snowfall and the potential for blowing and drifting snow can also increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a gas that is referred to as the silent killer because it is colorless, odorless, tasteless and non-irritating. If snow blocks furnace or hot water tank vents, it can cause carbon monoxide to accumulate indoors. At high levels, this gas can cause suffocation, loss of consciousness, brain damage or death.

“It is important that individuals protect themselves and their families from carbon monoxide poisoning by making sure they have working carbon monoxide detectors in their homes and by ensuring furnace and hot water tank vents are not blocked by snow,” said John Griffith, Chautauqua County Office of Emergency Services Director.

Portable generators can also be a source of carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use a portable generator inside a home, basement or any enclosed or semi-enclosed structure. It should be placed outside and away from windows and doors of any nearby building.

The Office of Emergency Services also reminds residents to keep their house numbers visible so first responders can quickly locate a home in the event of an emergency. Residents should remove snow from around the numbers in both directions and be sure to use reflective numbers that show up at night.

That’s according to the Post-Journal, which says officials in Warren County are continuing to access the damage along a 16 mile path in an area just west of the city of Warren.

The tornado touched down at about 8:18 p.m. in Pleasant Township.

Hardest hit was the Carter Lumber business in Starbrick, which saw significant damage to several of its buildings and warehouses.

A meteorologist with the National Weather Service determined some of the storm’s wind speeds reached 120-to-130-mile-per-hour.