New York state is putting motorists on alert for possible lake-effect snows beginning Wednesday.

This week, Gov. Kathy Hochul urged caution for those in Western New York, Central New York, the Mohawk Valley and the North Country through Saturday. Travel around the Thanksgiving holiday is the busiest of the year, and snow paired with high winds increases the risk of blowing and drifting snow. Those traveling for the holiday should leave themselves extra time to reach their destinations and avoid traveling during intense periods of snow. Snowfall is expected to begin tonight and hit peak rates Thursday into Friday. New Yorkers should monitor their local forecast to plan travel accordingly.

“Thanksgiving is the busiest travel time of the year, and as lake effect snow enters our holiday plans, I am urging New Yorkers to exercise caution by leaving extra time for travel and monitoring for weather updates,” Hochul said. “We’re preparing to deploy resources to keep New Yorkers safe and our roadways clear, and we will continue to work with our local partners to ensure everyone has a safe and joyful Thanksgiving with their friends and family.”

In addition to preparing for snow, New Yorkers should also prepare to protect against the dangers that can result from colder weather and winter activities. Under state regulation, a Code Blue is automatically in effect whenever the temperature and wind chill equal less than 32 degrees. Local social services districts are legally required to take necessary steps to ensure those experiencing homelessness have access to shelter and that shelter hours are extended.

Winter Storm Watches have been issued, and New Yorkers should closely monitor their local forecasts and look for updates issued by the National Weather Service. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov.

New Yorkers should also ensure that government emergency alerts are enabled on their mobile phones. They should also sign up for real-time weather and emergency alerts that will be texted to their phones by texting their county name to 333111.

The State Department of Transportation is monitoring weather conditions prepared to respond with more than 3,500 operators and supervisors available statewide.

All available snow and ice equipment is ready to deploy.