New York: Governor Kathy Hochul has urged New Yorkers to get ready for a severe winter storm expected to bring freezing temperatures and heavy lake effect snow across the state starting Sunday.
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Storm Details and Affected Areas
The storm system is forecast to hit regions like Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island with snow and freezing temperatures from Sunday night, January 19, through Monday morning, January 20.
Areas near Lake Erie and Lake Ontario are expected to see lake effect snow starting Sunday night, lasting until Wednesday.
The National Weather Service warns that “feels-like” temperatures could plummet to as low as -25°F during the nights of January 20, 21, and 22.
Governor Hochul’s Statement
Governor Hochul addressed the potential dangers of the storm, saying:
“As extreme cold temperatures and lake effect snow move into our state over the coming days, I’ve directed our state agencies to mobilize their resources. These conditions pose an extraordinary risk to anyone exposed to the elements or without adequate heat at home. I encourage New Yorkers to take precautions to keep themselves and their families safe.”
State Preparations
State agencies are ready to tackle the storm. Key measures include:
- Emergency Response:
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is working with local agencies to ensure emergency resources are ready to deploy. - Road Safety:
- The Department of Transportation has 3,671 supervisors and operators, along with plow trucks and snow blowers, prepared to clear roads.
- The Thruway Authority has over 113,000 tons of salt available and 691 operators ready to respond. All plow trucks are equipped with green hazard lights for better visibility.
- Utilities:
Approximately 5,500 workers are on standby to address power outages and other issues caused by the storm. - Law Enforcement:
The State Police will deploy additional patrols as necessary. - Environmental Support:
The Department of Environmental Conservation is ready to coordinate resource deployment.
Safety Tips for Residents
New Yorkers are advised to stay informed and take these precautions:
- Dress in layers to stay warm.
- Keep pets indoors to protect them from the cold.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather.
Residents can sign up for emergency alerts at alert.ny.gov and check weather updates on the National Weather Service website. For real-time road conditions, visit 511ny.org or call 511.
Stay safe and stay warm, New York!
