Governor Hochul Urges New Yorkers to Prepare for Dangerously Cold Temperatures and Extreme Wind Chill this Weekend

Temperatures As Low as -15 Degrees and Wind Chills as Low as -25 to -50 Degrees Expected Late Friday Night Through Saturday for Most Regions Across the State

Extreme Cold Weather Brings Increased Risk of Hypothermia, Frostbite in Minutes; New Yorkers in Impacted Areas Urged to Limit Time Outdoors

Governor Hochul Encourages New Yorkers to Use Caution When Using Portable Space Heaters Indoors and Other Alternate Heating Sources

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Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to prepare for dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills beginning Friday and continuing through Saturday. Most regions across the state, including Western and Central NY, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, North Country, Capital Region and Mid-Hudson, are expected to see temperatures as low as -15 degrees and wind chills as low as -25 to -50 degrees for a period lasting almost 48 hours. These extreme cold weather conditions bring an increased risk of hypothermia and frostbite, and fire and carbon monoxide poisoning from alternative heating sources, such as portable space heaters and fuel-burning appliances.

"New Yorkers across the state will experience dangerously cold temperatures and life-threatening wind chills this weekend," Governor Hochul said. "Now is the time to prepare: plan to limit your time outdoors this weekend and know where to take shelter. Take all necessary precautions to ensure your residence is safely heated and use caution if you plan to use an alternative heat source, such as a space heater."

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, "Extremely cold temperatures will begin Thursday evening and last for about two days. Below zero temperatures and wind chills can pose a risk for frostbite on exposed skin in just 10 minutes, as well as hypothermia. Dress in layers and limit any time outdoors this weekend. Make sure your home and vehicles are ready for the cold weather and look after your vulnerable neighbors and loved ones while staying warm."

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), an arctic airmass is expected to move across the State beginning late Thursday through Saturday, potentially bringing the coldest wind chills in almost 30 years to locations, including the North Country. NWS predicts a nearly 48-hour period where wind chill temperatures will be below -15 degrees beginning late Friday night and continuing through Saturday. The coldest conditions are expected Friday night and early Saturday morning with wind chill temperatures dropping to as low as -50 degrees in some locations. Conditions should improve Sunday with temperatures warming to normal levels early next week.

Wind Chill Warnings, Watches and Advisories are in effect for regions across the state beginning late Thursday through Saturday. A quick burst of heavy and blowing snow is expected to create hazardous travel conditions Thursday evening in areas bordering Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.

For a complete list of weather watches, warnings, and advisories across New York, visit the National Weather Service website.

Safety Tips

Frostbite

Hypothermia

Protecting Water Pipes

Prevent the mess and aggravation of frozen water pipes, protect your home, apartment, or business by following these steps:

Be "Fire Safe"

Heating equipment is among the leading causes of home fires nationally and in New York State. Take a few simple steps to significantly reduce the possibility of experiencing a heating related fire. No matter how careful you are with home heating, you and your family should be prepared in case fire strikes:

Maintain and Inspect Home Heating Appliances

Proper maintenance and an annual inspection of heat pumps, furnaces, space heaters, wood and coal stoves, fireplaces, chimneys, and chimney connections by qualified specialists can prevent fires and save lives. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation, venting, fueling, maintenance and repair. Review the owner's manual to make sure you remember the operating and safety features.

Carbon Monoxide

Other Heating Safety Tips

The New York Office of State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation cautions patrons to check the status of the site they intend to visit and to dress accordingly for extreme conditions. In cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced, which can lead to serious health problems.

Whether hiking, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross country skiing or simply taking a walk, dress in layers to protect your body. Frostbite can be drastically reduced when wearing the proper outdoor apparel. OPRHP strongly cautions against wearing any cotton layer since it does not wick moisture created by perspiration and freezes once it is wet. We recommend polyester blends, silk, or other synthetic fabrics to wick moisture away from the skin. Fleece, wool or polyester are the best choices. Several thin, loose layers are better than one thick layer. Wear a hat. Mittens are better than gloves.

For snowmobilers, your outside shell should be windproof and waterproof. Acrylic or synthetic materials are the most popular fabrics. If you plan to travel near or on ice, get a suit that comes equipped with approved floatation. Wear approved helmets, facemasks, goggles, balaclavas and gloves.

For your feet, again, never wear cotton socks and bring an extra pair just in case. Good boots will keep your feet warm, comfortable and protected from water. The best material is a combination of a rubber, waterproof bottom with a good sole for traction and a nylon or synthetic upper high enough to repel snow. Choose boots that fit well and are comfortable for a long day. If they are too tight, it can cut off circulation and your feet will get cold. More information on safe snowmobile safety is available here.