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Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino has declared a State of Emergency in anticipation of the significant winter storm expected to hit the area. According to the National Weather Service in Albany, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from Sunday (January 25) at 7 am until Monday (January 26) at 7 pm. The storm is forecasted to bring heavy snowfall, with accumulations ranging from 12 to 24 inches across the county.
To ensure public safety and allow road crews to clear the snow, Serino has issued a travel ban for all non-essential personnel. The ban begins at 5 am on Sunday and will remain in effect until 5 pm on Monday. Essential personnel, including emergency responders, utility workers, and news media, are exempt from the ban. County offices will also be closed on Monday.
Serino emphasized the importance of the travel restrictions, stating, "The safety of our residents and visitors in Dutchess County is my main concern." She urged residents to comply with the travel ban to allow road crews to manage the storm effectively.
With temperatures expected to drop to single digits, the county's CODE BLUE protocol is activated to provide shelter for those in need. Residents seeking emergency shelter can call 2-1-1 for assistance.
For ongoing updates on the storm response, residents can visit the Dutchess County website. Winter weather safety tips are also available online to help residents prepare for the severe conditions.