Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency on Friday ahead of dangerous cold temperatures and a massive winter storm expected to dump up to 18 inches of snow across much of New York through Monday.
Extreme cold will grip the state Friday night, with wind chill temperatures plunging as low as negative 50 degrees in some areas on Friday night and negative 30 degrees Saturday night. The National Weather Service issued extreme cold watches from 7 p.m. Friday to 1 p.m. Saturday for the North Country.
>> CNY hasn’t seen a stretch of bitterly cold weather like this in years
A large winter storm will arrive Sunday morning and continue through Monday. The hardest-hit areas — including New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, the Capital Region, Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, lower North Country and parts of Central New York — could see 12 to 18 inches of snow. Western New York and the upper North Country will likely receive 6 to 12 inches.
“Winter in New York is nothing we can’t handle, but it is important to take the risks that come with extreme cold seriously,” Hochul said. “New Yorkers should avoid travel during the snow, especially with the danger that comes with being stranded in these cold temperatures. If you must travel, be sure to leave yourself extra travel time and pack your car with supplies like blankets, water and snacks. Safety is always the top priority, so make sure you are ready to face this storm.”
>> CNY’s chances of getting over a foot or more of snow has jumped way up
Snowfall rates could reach two inches or more per hour in the heaviest bands, sharply reducing visibility on roadways. Officials warned that the combination of dangerous driving conditions and extreme cold poses serious risks.
Non-essential state employees have been directed to telecommute on Monday where possible.
The state suspended early voting for New York City’s Feb. 3 special elections on Sunday and Monday. State officials are working with the New York City Board of Elections to extend hours during the remainder of the early voting period.
Under state regulation, a Code Blue automatically takes effect whenever the temperature and wind chill are equal to or less than 32 degrees. This requires local social services districts to ensure people experiencing homelessness have access to shelter with extended hours.
New Yorkers can sign up for weather and emergency alerts by texting 333-111.
