FULTON — Mayor James A. Rice today issued the following statement regarding the significant lake effect snowstorm that impacted the City of Fulton on Friday, January 2, 2026.
On Friday, January 2, the City of Fulton experienced an extraordinary lake effect snowstorm, with as much as 36 inches of snow recorded over the course of the event. I would like to first commend our dedicated City staff, the Fulton Police Department, and our Department of Public Works for their tireless efforts and professionalism throughout this challenging storm response.
I also wish to acknowledge the Fulton Common Council, many of whom were only in their second day serving in office, for their support and collaboration in communicating with residents during this rapidly evolving weather event. To our residents, your patience, cooperation, and understanding throughout the storm were greatly appreciated.
At the onset of the storm, the Fulton Police Department issued a travel advisory by 9:00 am to inform both residents and visitors of the dangerous conditions. By mid-morning, I directed staff to close City Hall by noon to allow employees to commute home safely and to further discourage non-essential travel. Snow plowing operations were already well underway, with crews focused on clearing and keeping streets passable.
As conditions worsened into the evening hours, snow removal efforts were significantly hampered by vehicles that were either stranded or parked on side streets. As a result, the Fulton Police Department issued a Snow Emergency at approximately 7:00 p.m., granting authority to clear streets of parked or disabled vehicles so plowing operations could continue safely and effectively.
During an event of this magnitude, equipment challenges can occur. I would like to extend a sincere thank you to the Oswego County Highway Department for their assistance in lending an additional snow plow during the height of the storm, which helped ensure continued response efforts.
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