ALBANY, NY –
Governor Kathy Hochul has urged New Yorkers to prepare for a stretch of extreme cold expected to impact the state from Friday through the weekend. Forecasters warn that dangerously low wind chills will develop statewide as frigid temperatures combine with strong winds.
The coldest “feels‑like” temperatures are expected Friday night into Saturday morning across Western New York, and again Saturday night into Sunday morning for much of the state. Parts of New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and the Capital Region are also expected to experience their lowest temperatures of the season.
In the North Country, wind chills are forecast to plunge between –20 and –40 degrees, while the rest of the state will see values between –10 and –20 degrees. Wind gusts of 30 to 40 miles per hour are expected from Friday night through Saturday.
Light snow is also possible from Friday into Saturday, with the potential for isolated snow squalls Friday afternoon and evening. With the extreme cold, even minor snow accumulation could create slick roads and hazardous travel conditions—especially during the Friday evening commute.
“This winter has proven to be a brutal one, with high snowfall totals and continuous temperatures below freezing,” Governor Hochul said. “Unfortunately, the cold we’ve seen for nearly a month is set to continue, but New Yorkers know how to stay safe. Stay home if you can, but if you can’t, make sure to allow yourself extra travel time and bring necessities like blankets, snacks and water with you. Before we know it, this winter will be behind us, but for now stay safe.”
New Yorkers should prepare to protect against the dangers that can result from colder weather and winter activities. Under state regulation, a Code Blue is automatically in effect whenever the temperature and wind chill equal less than 32 degrees. Local social services districts are legally required to take necessary steps to ensure those experiencing homelessness have access to shelter and that shelter hours are extended.
