Module 2: Storm of the Century

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Instructions

Watch the Multimedia for Module.  Read the Scenario Update, Key Issues and Possible Discussion Topics.

Based on the information provided in this module, participate in the discussion concerning the issues raised.

In your group, identify what actions should be taken, and any additional requirements, critical issues, decisions, and/or questions that should be addressed at this time.

Multimedia for Module

11am, Wednesday (November 13)

Multimedia update that summarizes the key events occurring this day

Scenario Update

Wednesday, 1pm (11/13/2013)

The storm is making its way across the state, battering the entire region, where at least three counties and several cities/towns have declared a state of emergency and several travel bans are in place. 

Heavy snow and high winds have toppled trees and knocked out power in ten counties. National Grid is reporting some 250,000 customers without power.   A Blizzard Warning is still in effect in Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Allegany, Monroe, and Livingston counties, with the rest of western and central New York under a Winter Storm Warning.  Heaviest snow falls are expected in the West and South, with 20 to 30 inches of lake enhanced snow now expected according to the National Weather Service

Amherst and Buffalo have declared a State of Emergency.  NFTA has suspended most of its bus and rail service in western NY.  All buses are expected to be off the roads by 3 p.pm. this afternoon.   Campus transportation services have also been suspended.  These service suspensions will remain in effect until further notice.

Several cities/towns/counties have banned all non-essential vehicles from roadways while crews try to keep up with the snow, which is dumping two to three inches of snow per hour and residents are being asked to stay off the streets.  “It’s bad out there. We’re asking people to stay home,” said a spokesperson from Erie County’s Office of Emergency Management.

•What are the Key Issues and Questions?

•What are some of the uncertainties?

•What actions are taken?

Key Issues

  1. Heavy lake -enhanced snow is currently falling in most of WNY
  2. Amherst, Buffalo and several other WNY cities/towns have driving bans, with no unnecessary travel.
  3. Amherst, Buffalo, Erie County, and other cities/towns/counties have declared States of Emergency
  4. The NYS Thruway is closed, as well as the 190, 290 and 990
  5. UB Campus transportation services have been suspended
  6. NFTA is suspending bus and rail services
  7. Commuter students, faculty, and staff are stranded on campus
  8. Power outages are occurring throughout WNY, although UB has power
  9. Blizzard Warning and Winter Storm Warning remain in effect
  10. Strong wind gusts
  11. More decisions need to be made about UB’s operational status
  12. Safety concerns for staff, faculty, and students


Possible Discussion Topics

  1. Did UB cancel activities for today, Wednesday, November 13th?  When was that decision made? 
  2. How are we handling stranded commuters?
  3. How are we handling campus residents who rely on campus transportation services?
Next Module (3: The Great American Dig-out)