Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul appeared on Spectrum to provide an update to New Yorkers regarding the ongoing winter storm affecting much of the state.
During her interview with Krystal Cole, Governor Hochul discussed the recent declaration of a State of Emergency for 35 counties. She explained, “This is going to be a broad based weather event starting in just a couple of hours. And as you know, it’s going to include New York City and Long Island and Westchester and Hudson Valley, but really over Central New York, Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier, Capital Region.”
Governor Hochul emphasized that nearly every region in the state is covered by the emergency order. She noted the importance of staying informed: “Knowledge is power and especially during what can be a very dangerous weather event.”
Addressing concerns about post-holiday travel, she said that preparations have been underway since early forecasts predicted the storm. The governor expressed relief that the worst conditions did not coincide with peak holiday travel days but warned that road conditions would remain challenging. “We’ve deployed thousands of highway crews, personnel, the trucks, the salting trucks — you’ll see them on the roads and we ask people to stay clear of them,” she stated.
She also mentioned that 5,000 utility workers are on standby to restore power if outages occur due to downed lines or trees. Hochul highlighted concerns about frigid temperatures and potential risks for those left without heat or electricity: “It could be life threatening. So we’re prepared for that, working with all 35 counties, their emergency management teams and ready to deploy resources anywhere and everywhere we need to.”
When asked about advice for those considering driving during the storm, Governor Hochul recommended taking precautions such as carrying extra blankets, water, flashlights, cell phone chargers, cat litter for traction, and a small shovel in vehicles. She urged residents: “I’m just asking if you could avoid travel until this weather event is over by mid-morning or early afternoon — it’d be much safer and it allows our plows to do their jobs as well.”
Hochul also encouraged New Yorkers to monitor news updates closely and check on neighbors who may need assistance. She referenced past severe snow events in Buffalo as reminders of how quickly conditions can change.
In closing remarks aimed at families across New York State facing winter weather disruptions after Christmas celebrations at home rather than traveling further afield due to safety concerns from heavy snowfall and hazardous roads — Governor Hochul said: “We will get through it. New Yorkers, we’re tough, we’re resilient… maybe just use this as an opportunity to just share final hours with your loved ones and not necessarily be outside on the road.”