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State Agencies Mobilized as Extreme Cold and Lake Effect Snow Approach

State Agencies Mobilized as Extreme Cold and Lake Effect Snow Approach
© Clay LeConey

Governor Kathy Hochul has directed state agencies to prepare for an intense winter storm expected to impact New York beginning Sunday. The storm will bring lake effect snow and dangerously cold temperatures to various regions, with conditions likely to persist through mid-week.

The storm system is forecast to bring snow and freezing temperatures to the Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island areas starting Sunday night and continuing into Monday morning. Simultaneously, lake effect snow is expected to develop east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario and could last through Wednesday. Though the precise intensity and location of snowfall remain uncertain, significant accumulation and hazardous travel conditions are possible in these areas.

Adding to the concern, feels-like temperatures are predicted to drop as low as -25°F across much of the state during the nights of Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Such extreme cold poses serious risks, particularly to individuals exposed to the elements or those without adequate heating.

“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 as we prepare to respond to this weather system,” Governor Hochul said. “These conditions pose an extraordinary risk to anyone who is exposed to the elements or is unable to adequately heat their home, and I encourage New Yorkers to take precautions to keep themselves and their families safe.”

Residents are advised to monitor local weather updates, prepare for severe winter conditions, and take appropriate safety measures. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service’s website at alerts.weather.gov. Additionally, New Yorkers can receive critical emergency updates by subscribing to NY Alert at alert.ny.gov, a free service providing notifications via cell phone or computer.

State agencies remain on standby to provide support and respond to the storm’s impact as New Yorkers brace for potentially life-threatening winter conditions.