New York is preparing for a significant snowstorm as Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for the entire state. The declaration allows for more efficient deployment of resources during the anticipated severe weather, according to CBS News. The governor worked with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to coordinate preparations within the city.
Gov. Hochul outlined measures in place to prepare for extreme cold and heavy snowfall, including the deployment of more than 5,000 utility workers to respond to potential power outages. The state has 114,000 tons of salt available, along with a fleet of large and medium plows and snowblowers, CBS News stated. Residents have also been advised to stock up on essential items to reduce the need to go out during the severe weather.
The impending snowstorm has also impacted the political calendar, with early voting for upcoming special elections in New York City suspended on Sunday and potentially on Monday, depending on weather conditions. The Board of Elections will inform voters in the affected areas of additional hours to compensate for the lost voting time, Spectrum News reported.
Gov. Hochul told CBS News that the state of emergency allows state personnel to provide assistance on the streets of New York, including plowing and other needs. The governor’s office has directed all state employees to work remotely on Monday and has encouraged other employers to consider the same to limit travel during the storm. Additional steps, such as suspending early voting, have been implemented to ensure the safety of voters and workers.
With snowfall projected between 6 and 12 inches from Sunday to Monday, Westchester County has declared a five-day state of emergency starting Saturday night. County Executive Ken Jenkins emphasized preparedness and urged residents to be self-sufficient during the storm, CBS News reported. Residents are advised to dress appropriately if they need to go outside and to check on neighbors, particularly those who are elderly or have disabilities.
