Governor Kathy Hochul urged New Yorkers to prepare for dangerously cold temperatures and continued lake-effect snow as an Arctic air mass moves across the state this weekend and into next week. Wind chills are expected to bring “feels-like” temperatures as low as negative 20 degrees Fahrenheit in parts of the North Country, with single-digit conditions across much of the state.
“An Arctic blast is expected to bring dangerously colder temperatures starting this weekend and continuing through next Friday,” Hochul said Friday. “I encourage all New Yorkers to monitor their local forecasts and take precautions to protect themselves against the cold: wear layers, limit outdoor work, and stay hydrated.”
The cold snap follows days of lake-effect snow, with areas east of Lake Ontario anticipating up to four feet of total accumulation by Sunday evening. Winds are expected to strengthen across the state, with gusts reaching 45 miles per hour in higher elevations. Winter weather warnings and advisories remain in effect, with details available on the National Weather Service website.
To assist vulnerable residents, Hochul highlighted resources like the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), which offers heating assistance of up to $996 to eligible households. She also emphasized the importance of the state’s Code Blue regulations, which require local social services districts to ensure shelter access for those experiencing homelessness when temperatures drop below freezing.
The governor also warned residents to take steps to prevent frostbite, hypothermia, and carbon monoxide poisoning during the extreme cold. Safety recommendations include limiting time outdoors, wearing layered clothing, and properly ventilating spaces when using generators or other heating equipment.
As the cold weather persists, state agencies are coordinating with local governments to monitor conditions and provide assistance. Hochul encouraged New Yorkers to sign up for emergency alerts through NY-Alert and to stay informed of changing weather conditions.
