Governor Hochul Updates New Yorkers as Heavy Snow and Strong Winds Continue to Impact Downstate Regions Today

 State of Emergency Continues for Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties; Blizzard Warning in Effect for Suffolk County

Heavy Snow Expected to Continue Through Today for Long Island, New York City and Mid-Hudson Regions with Accumulations of Up to 12 Inches Possible in NYC and Up to 24 Inches Possible on Long Island

Governor Hochul Cautions New Yorkers to Stay Off Roads to Allow Emergency Response Crews to Work Safely

Long Island Rail Road Service Suspended on All Branches; Speed Reductions and Truck Restrictions in Place for Long Island Expressway and Parkways

 Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on the winter storm currently impacting downstate with heavy snow and strong winds. Governor Hochul declared a State of Emergency on Friday, January 28, due to the arrival of a coastal storm forecasted to bring heavy snow and gusty winds to parts of Long Island, New York City, and the lower Hudson Valley. 

Some areas in Long Island have already experienced snowfall rates of two inches per hour, with rates continuing or increasing in intensity through late this afternoon. Winds gusting up to 60 mph at times coupled with heavy snowfall will impact travel in these locations and could potentially cause power outages. Governor Hochul advised New Yorkers in impacted locations to stay home and avoid traveling, unless necessary.

"So far, we're seeing exactly what the forecast predicted — a lot of snow in a short period of time and gusty winds that will make it difficult to travel throughout the rest of the day, especially on Long Island," Governor Hochul said. "State emergency responders are already deployed to areas where the heaviest snow is expected, and they are ready to assist local emergency response efforts. The most dangerous phase of the storm is now, so please continue to avoid any unnecessary travel while our crews are working to clear the roads. Remember to keep a close eye on your local forecasts for the latest updates, and check in on your loved ones and neighbors to make sure everyone is safe."

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, "We are still anticipating major snowfall today in parts of Long Island and New York City, so it is imperative to stay home and let emergency responders do what they need to do to keep us all safe. Blizzard-like conditions will persist throughout the day, so dress in layers and limit your exposure if you have to venture out."

A Blizzard Warning is in effect for Suffolk County and a Winter Storm Warning is currently in effect for Nassau County, New York City, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester areas.  For a complete listing of weather advisories in your area, visit the National Weather Service website.

Safety Tips

Winter Travel

The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents.

Before getting behind the wheel, make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.

It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit, to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, as this is the most efficient and safe way to clear several lanes at one time.

Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions. Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely. The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted.

Some of the most important tips for safe driving include:

• When winter storms strike, do not drive unless necessary.
• Use caution on bridges as ice can form quicker than on roads.
• Wet leaves on roadways can cause slippery conditions, making it important to drive at slower speeds when approaching patches of them.
• Make sure your car is stocked with blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick-energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
• Keep your gas tank full to prevent gasoline freeze-up.
• If you have a cell phone or two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling. If you should become stranded, you will be able to call for help, advising rescuers of your location.
• Make sure someone knows your travel plans.
• While driving, keep vehicles clear of ice and snow.
• Plan stops and keep distance between cars. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.

Power Outage

If experiencing a power outage, New Yorkers should:

• Turn off or disconnect major appliances and other equipment, e.g., computers, in case of a momentary power surge that can damage these devices. Keep one light turned on so you know when power returns. Consider using surge protectors wherever you use electronic equipment.
• Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage and listen to local broadcasts for official information. For a list of utilities, visit the State Department of Public Service.  
• Check to see if your neighbors have power. Check on people with access or functional needs.
• Use only flashlights for emergency lighting - candles pose the risk of fire.
• Keep refrigerators and freezer doors closed - most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for approximately four (4) hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Do not use a charcoal grill indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat - they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide. 
• In cold weather, stay warm by dressing in layers and minimizing time spent outdoors. Be aware of cold stress symptoms (i.e., hypothermia) and seek proper medical attention if symptoms appear. 
• If you are in a tall building, take the stairs and move to the lowest level of the building. If trapped in an elevator, wait for assistance. Do not attempt to force the doors open. Remain patient - there is plenty of air and the interior of the elevator is designed for passenger safety.
• Remember to provide fresh, cool water for your pets.
• Eliminate unnecessary travel, especially by car. Traffic signals will stop working during an outage, creating traffic congestion and dangerous driving conditions. If you must drive during a blackout, remember to obey the 4-way stop rule at intersections with non-functioning traffic signals.
• Remember that equipment such as automated teller machines (ATMs) and elevators may not be working.

For more safety tips, visit the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Safety Tips web page.