Brutal Cold Ahead: Wind Chills Plunge to -25° Early Next Week in NYS

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services are closely monitoring the storm’s track and have state stockpiles prepared for emergency response needs.

Emergency crews across New York State are preparing for a significant winter storm set to bring snowfall and extreme cold temperatures across the region starting Sunday. Governor Kathy Hochul has directed state agencies to prepare response efforts as conditions develop, urging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions.

Temperatures will plummet across much of the state, with wind chills making it feel as cold as -25 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings.

The heaviest snowfall is anticipated in the Mid-Hudson and Capital Regions, where accumulations could reach up to 10 inches by Sunday night. The storm is expected to begin with rain or a mix of rain and snow in some parts of the state before transitioning fully to snow.

Buffalo Bills fans attending Sunday’s game in Orchard Park should prepare for snowfall up to 3 inches and wind chill temperatures making it feel as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

In addition, lake-effect snow is expected to develop east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario starting Sunday night and continuing through Wednesday. While the exact timing and intensity remain uncertain, forecasters warn of potentially heavy snowfall and challenging travel conditions.

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is closely monitoring the storm’s track and has state stockpiles prepared for emergency response needs. The New York State Department of Transportation has mobilized 3,671 supervisors and operators, with additional personnel being sent to the Hudson Valley to assist with snow removal operations. Available equipment includes over 1,600 large plow trucks, snow blowers, and tow plows to help clear roadways.

The New York State Thruway Authority has also prepared its fleet of 354 plow trucks and 10 tow plows. In anticipation of hazardous road conditions, officials remind drivers to stay behind snowplows and exercise caution. Motorists can check real-time traffic updates through the Thruway mobile app and 511NY website. You can monitor the latest weather alerts through are the National Weather Service and sign up for emergency notifications via NY Alert.

Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to avoid high-elevation trails in the Adirondacks and Catskills due to hazardous conditions. The DEC recommends checking ice safety guidelines before venturing onto frozen lakes or rivers.

Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of preparation, stating, “New Yorkers are no strangers to winter weather, but I encourage everyone to make sure you and your family are prepared for the snow and extreme cold, exercise caution if traveling, and continue to monitor your local forecast.”

New York’s utility companies have around 5,500 workers available to respond to any weather-related power outages or infrastructure damage. The Department of Public Service will monitor utility responses and ensure resources are allocated effectively to the hardest-hit regions.

The New York State Police will deploy extra patrols as needed, with four-wheel drive vehicles, utility terrain vehicles, and snowmobiles ready for emergency use. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) advises against snow disposal in local waterways due to the risk of ice dams and flooding.