BUFFALO, N.Y. — Erie County officials are watching conditions along Lake Erie as a winter storm with strong winds hits Western New York.
While a mandatory evacuation order has only been issued for neighbors in the Hoover Beach area ahead of what's expected to be a major winter storm, Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz is still encouraging anyone living in a low lying area near the lake to leave if they can.
He put out this warning because a 4 foot storm swell is expected for the Buffalo downtown area, which could have significant impacts.
"Those who live along the waterfront may see water coming into their homes that have never seen it before, so we are concerned," Poloncarz said.
Emergency crews will be sent to help people who run into trouble if crews are able to make it out there.
"We will not send emergency personnel if it is too dangerous for them to go out," Poloncarz said.
At a briefing at 8 a.m. on Friday, Poloncarz said now is the time for people to get out if they can.
The following shelters are open in Buffalo:
- 586 Genesee St. in Buffalo., open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Lincoln Community Center located at 10 Quincy Street in Buffalo, is open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
- Hennepin Community Center located at 24 Ludington Street in Buffalo is open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday.