New York Governor Kathy Hochul Briefs on Winter Storm Preparedness and State of Emergency

Winter Storm Preparedness and State of Emergency

• ⚠️ Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency for all of New York due to a dangerous winter weather event expected later today through Monday.
• ❄️ The storm brings a dangerous combination of heavy snow and extreme cold, with wind chills potentially reaching minus 40 to minus 50 degrees in the North Country.
• 🥶 Real feel temperatures will be below zero across the state, with risks of frostbite and hypothermia setting in rapidly.

Snowfall and Wind Conditions

• 🌨️ Lake effect snow is expected, with accumulations of 12 to 18 inches possible in areas like Long Island, NYC, and the Capital Region, and up to a foot elsewhere.
• 💨 While high winds are not generally expected, squalls of 25 to 35 miles per hour could cause whiteout conditions.

Public Safety and Travel Advisories

• 🏠 All state employees are authorized to work remotely on Monday, and employers are encouraged to do the same to keep people off the roads.
• 🗳️ Early voting for special elections in NYC scheduled for Sunday will be suspended due to the storm.
• 🛒 New Yorkers are advised to stock up on essentials like food, water, and prescriptions, and fill gas tanks before the worst of the weather hits.
• ⚠️ Be cautious when shoveling snow, as it can increase the risk of heart attack or cardiac arrest.
• 🏠 Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and use indoor space heaters and fireplaces safely.
• 🚗 Prepare vehicles for potential stranding with charged cell phones, food, water, blankets, a flashlight, and traction aids like cat litter.

State Resources and Utility Preparedness

• 🛠️ State agencies are activated and coordinating with local governments, with DOT and Thruway crews pre-treating roads and ample salt supplies available.
• ⚡ Approximately 5,600 utility workers are on standby to respond to power outages.
• 🏘️ Human services agencies are working to protect vulnerable New Yorkers, including the unsheltered, by activating Code Blue and enhancing shelter services.
• 🚆 The MTA is working to minimize disruptions, but New Yorkers should check for real-time updates on transportation services.

Long-Term Outlook and Gratitude

• 🥶 Following the main storm, anticipate another week of cold temperatures, though less severe than the weekend.
• 🙏 Governor Hochul expressed gratitude to all workers, including first responders, utility workers, and healthcare personnel, who must continue working outdoors during the extreme weather.