Governor Kathy Hochul has advised residents across New York State to take precautions as a winter storm is expected to bring snow and hazardous conditions starting Friday and continuing into Saturday morning. Forecasts indicate that the Southern Tier may receive four to six inches of snow, while the Mid-Hudson region could see up to eight inches. Western New York and the Finger Lakes are likely to experience a mix of sleet and freezing rain, leading to slippery roads. With the Christmas holiday on Thursday, those planning to travel on Friday are encouraged to consider changing their plans or allow extra time for safe travel.
“New York is no stranger to snow and cold weather, and given the Christmas holidays, it’s important to be extra prepared before getting on the road,” Governor Hochul said. “As always, I urge New Yorkers to monitor their local forecast, and text their county or borough name to our weather and emergency alerts system. Stay vigilant, drive slow if you need to travel and have a safe holiday weekend.”
The state has activated Code Blue regulations due to anticipated low temperatures, requiring local social services districts to provide shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness whenever temperatures fall below 32 degrees with wind chill. Residents are encouraged by state agencies such as the Department of Health to review cold weather safety tips related to frostbite prevention, carbon monoxide risks, generator use, and winter driving.
The Department of Labor has issued guidelines for employers and workers exposed to extreme cold. Recommendations include limiting outdoor work during colder periods, taking frequent breaks in warm areas, staying hydrated with warm beverages instead of caffeine, and wearing multiple layers along with appropriate protective gear.
Winter Storm Watches have been posted statewide. The National Weather Service provides updated alerts at alerts.weather.gov.
Officials remind residents to enable government emergency notifications on mobile devices. Real-time weather alerts can be received by texting one’s county or borough name to 333111.
Several state agencies are coordinating preparations:
– The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is readying emergency assets and maintaining contact with local authorities through its State Watch Center.
– The Department of Transportation has 3,605 operators available statewide for plowing operations around-the-clock during the storm event. Equipment includes large plow trucks, loaders, medium-duty trucks with plows, snow blowers, tow plows, and mechanics for ongoing repairs.
– For real-time traffic information or updates about road conditions visit www.511NY.org.
– The Thruway Authority will deploy over 688 operators using hundreds of plow trucks; motorists are reminded that snowplows operate at lower speeds for effective salting.
– Utilities have approximately 5,500 workers ready for response efforts in case of power outages or damage.
– The State Police are monitoring conditions closely in coordination with other agencies; troopers stand ready across all regions.
– The Department of Environmental Conservation advises against disposing snow in creeks or streams due to flood risks from ice dams; further guidance is provided on proper disposal practices.
– Outdoor enthusiasts visiting areas like the Adirondacks or Catskills should prepare for rapidly changing trail conditions due to varying snow depths at different elevations.
– Park officials recommend checking parks.ny.gov or using park apps before visiting state parks during inclement weather.
– The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is monitoring transit systems closely; riders can find updates via MTA’s apps or website.
– The Port Authority will issue facility-specific travel alerts as needed through email subscriptions or mobile applications.
Authorities emphasize several winter driving safety measures: check forecasts before traveling; avoid unnecessary trips; equip vehicles with survival supplies such as blankets and shovels; keep communication devices charged; clear vehicles completely before driving; maintain safe distances behind snowplows operating at reduced speeds; never attempt passing active plows.
In emergencies while hiking backcountry trails or traveling highways during storms, call 911 or designated ranger hotlines as appropriate.