NY Governor Kathy Hochul Briefs on Severe Winter Storm and Arctic Blast

Winter Storm Preparedness and Response

• ❄️ Governor Kathy Hochul addressed the state from the Emergency Operations Center, thanking first responders and essential personnel for their 24/7 work during the severe winter storm.
• 🥶 New York is experiencing its coldest winter storm in years, described as an "Arctic siege" with bone-chilling temperatures and heavy snowfall impacting the entire state and 30 other states.
• ⚠️ Records have been shattered, with actual temperatures reaching -34°F in Watertown and -49°F in Copenhagen, far colder than wind chills.
• 🚨 A state of emergency was declared on Friday, leading to the deployment of over 100 National Guard members, particularly downstate.
• 🚚 Restrictions are in place for vehicles on state roads, including a ban on long tandem tractor-trailers on the Thruway and commercial vehicles restricted to the right lane.
• 🏫 New York City schools will move to remote learning due to the storm.

Snowfall Forecast and Safety Recommendations

• 🌨️ The heaviest snow is expected this afternoon and through the night, continuing into tomorrow, with an estimated end by midday Sunday.
• 📈 Snowfall totals are projected to range from 8-12 inches in the North Country to 12-18 inches in the Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, and Central New York.
• 🧊 The storm will transition to sleet and ice in New York City and Long Island this afternoon, creating hazardous road conditions.
• 💨 While widespread power outages are not expected, winds on Long Island and NYC could gust up to 30-35 mph.
• 🏠 New Yorkers are strongly advised to stay off the roads, stay home, and prepare for the extreme cold and hazardous conditions.

Public Safety and Essential Services

• 🚗 Travelers are urged to check 511ny.org for real-time road conditions and incidents.
• 🚆 Public transportation, including the MTA, will operate on a weekend schedule, with a focus on snow removal at stations.
• 🗳️ Early voting for special elections scheduled for February 3rd in NYC and surrounding areas will be suspended today and tomorrow, with extra hours added later.
• 💡 Safety tips for shoveling snow include bending knees, taking smaller loads, and avoiding overexertion to prevent heart attacks.
• 🏠 Indoor safety measures include testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, dressing in layers, and protecting pipes from freezing.
• 🤝 Neighbors are encouraged to check on the elderly and watch out for pets.

Emergency Operations and Federal Concerns

• 🌐 The state's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) serves as the nerve center for response, coordinating with partner agencies and local emergency management offices.
• ✈️ Flight cancellations are widespread due to the nationwide storm, with up to 90% cancellations reported at some airports.
• 🚨 Governor Hochul also addressed recent incidents involving federal immigration agents using lethal force against US citizens, calling for accountability and the resignation of DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen.
• 📞 In case of power outages, residents should call their utility company, and warming shelters are available via 211.