Local officials prepare for snowfall across Western New York

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Across Western New York, crews are preparing for another busy day of making sure roads are clear for residents. Both Erie and Niagara County officials said they're confident they can get the job done, but know there are challenges ahead.

A winter weather advisory is currently in effect for several counties, including northern Erie and Niagara. It will last until 4:00 a.m. Friday.

Although Erie and Niagara counties aren't expected to get too much snow, officials are still taking precautions.

North Tonawanda Mayor Austin Tylec said employees with the Department of Public Works will monitor the weather and work in shifts to keep the streets clear.

"We in North Tonawanda have seven plows, I believe six salters and other equipment to handle the roads," Tylec said. "Generally, our department always focuses on the main roads and then they'll start to hit the side roads, the alleys, and so on."

Snowfall in the Northtowns had a late start this year. Tylec said that extra time was used to ensure that equipment was up to date. He said it's a priority that the DPW has enough money to operate successfully.

"Under my administration, we make sure that we are funding our departments especially, so we have top notch equipment," Tylec said. "They're ready to go with the tools that they need to make sure they can do their job."

For Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, a major concern for the next few days is the wind gusts. He said with gusts over 40 miles per hour, power outages are more likely, meaning residents can be left in the dark.

"You got to be prepared right now to ensure that you have the essentials like flashlights, candles and food in case you get stuck in your home," Poloncarz said. "Now is the time before the storm really hits to be prepared."

Both Tylec and Poloncarz emphasized the importance of residents taking precautions when they are on the roads. They reminded everyone to slow down, be aware of their surroundings, and to let the snowplows do their jobs so everyone can be safe.

Trina Catterson joined the News 4 team in 2024. She previously worked at WETM-TV in Elmira, a sister station of WIVB. See more of her work here.