Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul appeared on Spectrum to inform New Yorkers about the state’s response to an incoming winter storm. Hochul declared a State of Emergency in 35 counties across New York, covering areas including New York City, Long Island, Westchester, Hudson Valley, Central New York, Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier, and the Capital Region.
“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,” Hochul said. “So this has almost every area the state covered under now a State of Emergency.”
Hochul emphasized the importance of staying informed through news outlets so residents can prepare for hazardous conditions and manage their travel plans accordingly. She noted that although the storm did not coincide with major travel days before Christmas—an advantage for public safety—the situation remains challenging for those on the roads.
The governor described steps being taken by the state government: “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. But also even deploying and having at the ready utility crews — 5,000 people who are ready to restore power if we end up with a situation we’ve seen far too often where there’s power outages like when utility lines come down or trees take them down.”
She warned that frigid temperatures could make any power outage life-threatening. The state is working with emergency management teams from all affected counties to ensure resources can be sent wherever necessary.
Hochul advised against unnecessary travel during this period: “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.” For those who must drive despite warnings, she recommended carrying blankets, water, flashlights, cell phone chargers—and even cat litter or a small shovel—for emergencies.
In addition to monitoring weather updates closely via radio or television reports while at home or in vehicles during potential whiteout conditions caused by blowing snow—sometimes resulting in rapid accumulation—she asked residents to check on neighbors who may need assistance.
“Power outage is the main concern,” Hochul said. “But also I’m asking people to look out for their neighbors… Continue monitoring news reports from your station and radio if you’re in your vehicles.”
Reflecting on her experience growing up in Western New York’s snowy climate she added: “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.”
No additional facts were provided for further context.
