NEW YORK (PIX11) – New York Governor Kathy Hochul is asking New Yorkers to exercise caution ahead of snowfall expected to pound the state, her office announced on Wednesday.

A winter storm watch is in effect from Friday afternoon through Saturday, according to the National Weather Service.

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Although New York City won’t see a White Christmas, those returning or traveling on Friday may wish to adjust their plans.

Heavy snow is expected to hit New York City, New Jersey, and Connecticut, with 4 to 8 inches forecast. Road conditions are expected to be slippery, with even hazardous conditions affecting traffic, the NWS wrote in a probabilistic weather forecast.

“New York is no stranger to snow and cold weather, and given the Christmas holidays, it’s important to be extra prepared before getting on the road,” Governor Hochul said. “As always, I urge New Yorkers to monitor their local forecast and text their county or borough name to our weather and emergency alerts system. Stay vigilant, drive slowly if you need to travel, and have a safe holiday weekend.”

Those with travel commitments are encouraged to follow these safety tips.

Driving safety tips

  • Monitor the forecast for the area you may be traveling to

  • Make sure your car is stocked with survival gear like blankets, a shovel, a flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, a set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods, and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag

  • Keep your cell phone battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling

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Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.

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