New York Declares Emergency Ahead of Extreme Cold And Heavy Snow Through Monday
Albany, N.Y. — New York families are being urged to prepare for dangerous cold and a significant winter storm expected to bring heavy snow and hazardous travel from Sunday into Monday, after Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a statewide State of Emergency.
State officials said extreme cold arrives Friday night, with an Extreme Cold Watch for parts of the North Country from 7 p.m. Friday to 1 p.m. Saturday and wind chills that could feel as low as minus 50 degrees in the coldest areas.
A large winter storm is expected to spread across the state Sunday morning and continue into Monday. Forecast totals cited by the state include 12 to 18 inches for New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, the Capital Region and several other regions, with 6 to 12 inches possible in parts of Western New York and the upper North Country.
Hochul warned snowfall rates could reach 2 inches an hour in heavier bands, sharply reducing visibility and increasing the risk of drivers becoming stranded in extreme cold. At the governor’s direction, state response agencies have been engaged in multi-day preparations.
The storm is also expected to disrupt normal routines on Monday. Hochul directed nonessential state employees to telecommute Monday where possible.
In New York City, the state also suspended early voting for the Feb. 3 special elections on Sunday and Monday, with plans to extend hours on remaining early-voting days.
Safety tips for families:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during peak snow; if you must drive, pack blankets, water, snacks, and a phone charger.
- Dress in layers and limit time outdoors; frostbite can happen quickly in extreme wind chills.
- Use space heaters and generators safely, and make sure carbon monoxide alarms work.
- Get local alerts by texting your county or borough name to 333111 and watch for school/district updates.
