ALBANY, NY – [Photo: Aidin Bharti/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul]
Governor Kathy Hochul on Friday [1/23] declared a State of Emergency as New York braces for a blast of extreme cold followed by a major winter storm expected to sweep across the state this weekend. Wind chills are forecast to plunge below zero Friday night and again Saturday night, creating hazardous conditions statewide.
Beginning early Sunday, a powerful storm system is projected to bring heavy snowfall through Monday. Forecasts show New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, the Capital Region, the Southern Tier, the Mohawk Valley, the lower North Country, and parts of Central New York could receive 12 to 18 inches of snow. Western New York and the upper North Country are expected to see six to 12 inches.
State officials are urging residents to prepare for dangerous cold, difficult travel, and potential disruptions as the system moves through.
“Winter in New York is nothing we can’t handle, but it is important to take the risks that come with extreme cold seriously”, Governor 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”.
Snowfall rates could reach two inches per hour in the most intense bands, sharply reducing visibility and making travel extremely dangerous. State officials are urging New Yorkers to stay off the roads during the height of the storm, warning that the combination of heavy snow and life‑threatening cold poses a significant risk.
As part of the State of Emergency, Governor Hochul also suspended early voting for the February 3 special elections in New York City on Sunday, January 25, and Monday, January 26. The State is coordinating with the New York City Board of Elections to extend voting hours later in the week to make up for the lost time.
Residents are also being advised to take precautions against the hazards associated with extreme cold. Under state regulations, a Code Blue is automatically triggered when temperatures or wind chills fall below 32 degrees, requiring local social services agencies to ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness have access to shelter and that facilities extend their hours.
Officials are encouraging New Yorkers to review cold‑weather safety guidance, including tips on preventing frostbite and hypothermia, recognizing carbon monoxide dangers, using generators safely, and preparing for winter driving.
The New York State Department of Labor advises workers and employers to engage in extreme cold weather best practices such as:
- Limit outdoor work, provide frequent breaks in warm areas and schedule outdoor work during the warmest times of the day.
- Ensure access to clean drinking water.
- Stay hydrated with warm beverages and avoid drinking caffeine.
- Wear proper PPE, including at least three layers of clothing, gloves or mittens, thick socks, insulated footwear and a hat, hood or hard hat liner.
View more information on best practices for working in cold weather.
Extreme Cold Watches, Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories have been issued, and New Yorkers should closely monitor their local forecasts and look for updates issued by the National Weather Service. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website.
New Yorkers should also ensure that government emergency alerts are enabled on their mobile phones. They should also sign up for real-time weather and emergency alerts that will be texted to their phones by texting their county or borough name to 333111.
