Hochul Declares New York State of Emergency as Winter Storm Looms
As the winter storm approaches New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency to brace for potentially severe conditions. Meteorologists predict one of the worst storms to hit the state in the last ten years, with snowfall reaching between 12 to 18 inches.
Winter Storm Projections and Safety Measures
Hochul cautioned about the dangerous combination of heavy snow and frigid temperatures, stating that no part of the state will be spared. Wind chills could plunge to -50 degrees in certain regions, particularly in the North Country.
- Expected Snowfall: 12 to 18 inches across the state
- Wind Chill: Potentially reaching -50 degrees
- State Preparations: 114,000 tons of salt on hand
The governor recommended that residents stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. An authorization has been issued allowing state employees, except those involved in emergency preparedness, to work from home. Additionally, Hochul emphasized the importance of stocking essentials such as groceries and medications before the storm hits.
Emergency Services and Community Support
In New York City, Mayor Zohran Mamdani has also declared a state of emergency. He assured residents of the city’s preparedness during a series of media appearances.
- Sanitation Workers: More than 2,000 will start work on 12-hour shifts
- Salt Spreaders: 700 ready for deployment
- Snow Plows: 2,200 will be activated once snow accumulation reaches 2 inches
The mayor advised residents to complete their grocery shopping ahead of the storm and to remain indoors during its peak on Sunday. A hazardous travel advisory is in effect for Sunday and Monday. Mamdani stated that the city has already begun preparing streets with brine.
School Closures and Responses
Despite the storm forecast, New York City schools will remain open or conduct classes virtually; no official snow day is anticipated. Parents are expected to receive notifications regarding the school operations by noon on Sunday, as the mayor aims to meet the state’s requirement of 180 school days annually.
Mamdani’s decision faced some opposition, as students were actively lobbying for a snow day. However, the mayor expressed the importance of maintaining educational standards, reflecting lessons learned from past emergencies faced by previous city leaders.
Public Safety Reminders
With the storm drawing near, both Hochul and Mamdani have urged the public to exercise caution. Hochul warned about the dangers of shoveling snow, which can lead to serious health risks. Residents should also be vigilant for signs of hypothermia and stay inside if power outages occur.
As New Yorkers prepare for this winter storm, the state and city officials assure that necessary resources and measures are in place to ensure public safety. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and adhere to safety recommendations throughout the event.
