New York Governor Kathy Hochul has called on residents to remain vigilant as the state endures a prolonged period of extreme cold. Temperatures across New York are expected to stay below normal, with wind chills making it feel well below zero. The ongoing weather raises the risk of hypothermia and frostbite for anyone outdoors without adequate protection. Additionally, an offshore storm could bring strong winds and minor coastal flooding to Long Island over the weekend.
“This winter has been brutal, but we must keep ourselves prepared in order to stay safe,” Governor Hochul said. “Accumulating snow and extreme cold poses a huge risk to those who may be out and about, so be sure to dress appropriately and have supplies on hand to keep yourself safe.”
To help residents cope with the cold, New York City will deploy 10 buses as warming shelters across all five boroughs from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Friday through Sunday. Information about warming spaces is available on New York City’s website.
Under state regulations, Code Blue protocols require local social services districts to provide shelter when temperatures or wind chills fall below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. This measure ensures that people experiencing homelessness have access to extended shelter hours during severe weather.
The Department of Labor recommends that employers limit outdoor work, schedule tasks during warmer parts of the day, provide frequent breaks in warm areas, ensure access to clean drinking water, and encourage workers to wear multiple layers of clothing along with appropriate personal protective equipment.
State agencies are also taking steps in response to the weather:
– The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is coordinating with local agencies and monitoring statewide impacts around the clock.
– The Department of Transportation has more than 3,700 staff ready for snow removal operations statewide and maintains an inventory of plows, loaders, tow plows, and snow blowers.
– The Thruway Authority is deploying hundreds of operators with plow trucks and has over 105,000 tons of salt available for road treatment.
– The Department of Public Service is overseeing utility companies’ preparations; approximately 5,500 workers are ready for repair efforts if outages occur.
– State Police are adding patrols in affected areas.
– The Department of Environmental Conservation urges proper snow disposal practices to prevent flooding and protect water quality.
– Hikers are advised against using high-elevation trails during storms due to hazardous conditions in regions such as the Adirondacks and Catskills.
– Park officials recommend checking park status before visiting due to potential closures or changes in hours.
Travelers are urged to monitor local forecasts closely and avoid unnecessary trips. If travel is required, motorists should equip their vehicles with emergency supplies such as blankets, shovels, extra clothing, food, batteries, tire chains, booster cables, distress flags, and charged communication devices. Snowplows operate at reduced speeds—typically up to 35 mph—and drivers should not attempt to pass them or follow too closely for safety reasons.
Power outage safety guidelines include staying away from downed wires—treating all as live—and unplugging appliances during outages until power returns. Residents can find additional information about preparedness on official agency websites such as www.dhses.ny.gov/safety.
Governor Hochul encouraged New Yorkers: “be sure to dress appropriately and have supplies on hand.” She emphasized staying informed by enabling government emergency alerts on mobile phones or signing up for real-time notifications by texting their county or borough name to 333111.
###