The winter storm that blasted the region with heavy snow and strong winds over the last 24 hours has resulted in one fatality, according to Yates County Sheriff Ron Spike.
In an update on conditions around the county, Spike said that first responders were very busy with weather-related calls.
He said Yates County 911 had to call-in extra staff to handle incidents. Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office, police officers, and firefighters were all working overtime throughout the storm. Spike says highway departments around the county were also working overtime staying ahead of the snow.
There was one reported fatality, related to an individual who was outside removing snow. Spike says the man, who was not identified, collapsed and was taken by ambulance to Soldiers & Sailors Hospital.
A large tree also fell on the roof of a home in the Town of Jerusalem — causing major damage.
Spike summarized the response:
– More than 150 law enforcement assignments;
– Over 75 fire department and EMS calls dispatched from the Yates County 911 Center; and
– More than 300 non-emergency phone calls to dispatch during the height of the storm.
Spike says that dispatchers were overloaded at times due to the number of calls coming into the office.
The Sheriff also says that the travel advisory will continue, as driving conditions are still hazardous in parts.
Spike concluded, “I thank all police, fire and EMS first responders, 911 dispatchers, highway department and municipal workers, wrecker services, volunteers, and NYSEG crews for all their responses and call handling.”
