Essex County Declares Emergency Ahead of Ice Storm

ELIZABETHTOWN, N.Y. — Essex County officials have declared a local state of emergency in anticipation of an impending ice storm expected to bring hazardous conditions beginning early Sunday morning.

The emergency declaration, which goes into effect at 1:00 a.m. Sunday and will remain in place for five days, aims to prepare local residents and emergency services for the expected severe weather, according to a news release from the county.

Officials are warning that the ice storm could lead to dangerous ice accumulation, making travel treacherous and potentially causing power outages. Roads are likely to become slippery, and emergency responders are urging residents to refrain from unnecessary travel during the storm.

“This storm poses a serious risk to our community, and we are taking every precaution to ensure the safety of our residents,” said Essex County Emergency Services Coordinator Thomas S. Smith. “We ask everyone to stay informed and take the necessary precautions to stay safe during this weather event.”

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory that remains in effect until 8 p.m. EDT Sunday. The advisory warns of freezing rain mixed with sleet and snow, with ice accumulation expected to reach up to a tenth of an inch.

Forecasts predict that conditions may gradually transition to rain later in the day, except in sheltered valleys where temperatures are expected to remain below freezing, prolonging the risk of hazardous ice.

Residents are advised to use extreme caution when driving, as travel could become difficult in most areas throughout the storm. Local authorities recommend monitoring road conditions via state transportation websites, such as New York’s 511 service.

Emergency services are on high alert and ready to respond as the storm impacts the region. The public is encouraged to stay tuned to local news and weather updates for the latest information on the storm’s progress.