State authorities activated special protocols, mobilized response teams, and warned of risks to roads, public services, and power supply.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in the early hours of Friday due to the imminent arrival of a snowstorm and an extreme cold wave that will affect much of the state, including densely populated areas and rural regions, as reported by CBS News on January 23, 2026. The measure, which went into effect immediately, aims to anticipate risks to the population and guarantee the availability of state resources in the face of the weather phenomenon.
According to official updates released by the New York State Government website, the alert includes the activation of emergency protocols, the mobilization of cleaning and rescue teams, as well as coordination between different state and local agencies. The National Weather Service forecast estimates that areas of western New York will receive between 5 and 15 centimeters of snow between Wednesday and Thursday, while up to 30 centimeters could accumulate in the north. In addition, the heavy snow system will regain strength on Thursday and Friday in areas such as Watertown and the Tug Hill Plateau, where up to 45 additional centimeters are expected.
Winter storms and cold waves have been a recurring risk in the northeastern United States during recent winters, causing disruptions to public services and transportation problems. According to CBS News, similar events in recent years have caused power outages, traffic accidents, and the declaration of alerts by state governments. The current forecast includes temperatures that, with the wind chill effect, could drop to -40°C (-40°F) in the northern region during Friday night, with sub-zero temperatures throughout the state until next week.
Which areas are on alert and what are the forecasts?
The National Weather Service maintains active winter storm warnings and severe weather advisories in Western New York, upstate New York, and the New York metropolitan area, according to continuous monitoring by the state's Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. In the north, snow accumulation and wind could create zero-visibility conditions, posing a risk to road traffic and emergency logistics.
For areas south of Lake Erie, 10 to 15 centimeters of additional snow are expected on Thursday and Friday. Authorities warn that the sharp drop in temperature starting Friday will result in sub-zero wind chill temperatures throughout the state, with extreme readings in the northern region. On Sunday and Monday, a new storm system could bring heavy snowfall to the southern part of the state, including New York City and its surrounding areas.
What measures has the state government implemented?
Governor Kathy Hochul's administration has activated the State Watch Center, which operates 24 hours a day, and is keeping all teams from the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services on alert. According to the official statement, state depots are ready to deploy vehicles, equipment, and emergency supplies. The Department of Transportation has assigned 3,692 supervisors and operators to road clearing and maintenance tasks; the available fleet includes 1,614 large snowplows, 149 medium-sized snowplows, 53 tow plows, 337 large loaders, and 35 snow blowers.
The Thruway Authority, responsible for the interstate highway, has 685 operators and supervisors, 345 snowplows, 10 tow plows, 65 loaders, and more than 114,000 tons of salt stored for road treatment, according to the agency's latest update. Real-time information systems remain active through the mobile app and official social media channels.
How does this affect the population, and what are the official recommendations?
Authorities recommend that residents limit travel and avoid going out unless absolutely necessary. The official statement warns that “extreme cold poses a considerable risk; it is essential that New Yorkers prepare to ensure their safety,” as stated by Kathy Hochul through the official channel. The governor added: “Dress appropriately if you go outside, have supplies on hand, and stay informed about local weather forecasts. Severe weather doesn't discriminate: be prepared in advance.”
The statewide Code Blue is automatically activated when the temperature and wind chill drop below 0°C (32°F), legally requiring local social services districts to extend hours and ensure shelter for homeless individuals.
What resources and information channels are available?
For emergencies and weather alerts, New Yorkers can sign up by texting their county or district code to 333111, a system that provides real-time updates via text message. The 511ny.org portal offers traffic information, routes, and road conditions. Official state and Thruway Authority social media channels provide notices about road closures and traffic advisories.
In case of power outages, utility companies provide hotlines to report incidents and receive information about power restoration. A complete list of emergency numbers can be found on the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services website.
What actions have been taken to protect the environment and recreational activities?
The Department of Environmental Conservation coordinates waste management and snow disposal to prevent obstructions and contamination of water sources. It advises public and private operators to avoid dumping snow into streams and rivers, as this can cause damming and potential flooding. In addition, mountain and hiking areas are being monitored, with warnings to avoid high-altitude routes and crossing waterways during the storm.
The Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is keeping its staff and equipment on alert and recommends checking the parks.ny.gov website or the NY State Parks Explorer app to verify hours and accessibility of state parks.
What is the expected impact and what might happen in the coming days?
Authorities anticipate transportation disruptions, service delays, and potential power outages in areas affected by snow accumulation and falling temperatures. According to CBS News, the storm is being monitored continuously, and state agencies are assessing the need to increase assistance and deploy additional resources, especially if the system approaching this weekend intensifies in the southern part of the state.
New York residents should stay informed through official channels and take the recommended precautions during the emergency. State and local authorities will continue to provide updates on the storm's progress and the availability of assistance, depending on the evolving conditions.
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