New York Governor Declares State of Emergency for Winter Storm and Extreme Cold

State of Emergency Declared

• 🚨 Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency for all of New York due to a dangerous combination of heavy snow and extreme cold.
• ⚡ This declaration allows for closer coordination with local governments and the deployment of state resources to ensure public safety.
• 📜 Certain laws related to procurement will be suspended to expedite necessary actions.

Extreme Cold and Health Risks

• 🥶 Temperatures are expected to plummet, with windchills reaching -40 to -50 degrees in the North Country and below zero across the rest of the state.
• ⚠️ Frostbite can occur within five minutes of exposure, and hypothermia symptoms include poor coordination, slurred speech, and exhaustion.
• 🏠 New Yorkers are advised to bundle up, stay indoors, and be aware of these health risks.

Snowfall Predictions and Travel Advisories

• 🌨️ Significant snowfall is anticipated, with 12 to 18 inches possible in Long Island, New York City, Hudson Valley, and other regions. Some areas could see up to a foot.
• 💨 While hurricane-force winds are not expected, squalls of 25 to 35 mph may occur, potentially causing whiteout conditions.
• 🚗 All state employees are authorized to work remotely on Monday, and employers are encouraged to do the same to keep people off the roads.

Special Election and Public Guidance

• 🗳️ Early voting for special elections on February 3rd will be suspended on Sunday and possibly Monday in New York City races.
• 🛒 Residents are urged to stock up on essential supplies like food, water, and medications, and to fill gas tanks before the storm hits.
• 🛠️ Safety tips include testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, dressing in layers, preparing vehicles for potential stranding, and securing homes against drafts.

State Preparedness and Resources

• 🚒 The state emergency operations center is activated, and agencies are coordinating with local partners, including DOT and Thruway crews who are pre-treating roads.
• 🔌 Approximately 5,600 utility workers are on standby to respond to power outages, with no expectation of significant ice accumulation on power lines.
• 🤝 Human services agencies are working to protect vulnerable New Yorkers, including the unsheltered, and coordinating with local governments on Code Blue initiatives.
• 🚇 Transportation plans for the New York City subway system are being briefed, and MTA will minimize disruptions, ensuring tracks are clear before trains operate.
• ✈️ Flight cancellations are already occurring, and travelers should check status before heading to airports.
• ❄️ The state has 1,600 large plows, 149 medium plows, and 114,000 tons of salt on hand.

Ongoing Monitoring and Gratitude

• 📈 The storm will be monitored continuously, with updates provided to New Yorkers.
• 🙏 Governor Hochul expressed gratitude to all essential workers, including DOT, Thruway, first responders, and healthcare personnel, who are working outdoors during this event.
• 🥶 Anticipate a week of cold temperatures following the main storm, urging residents to hunker down and minimize outdoor time.