NY Gov. Kathy Hochul declares state of emergency for impending snowstorm

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency Friday due to the impending snowstorm.

The entirety of New York is under the state of emergency, which will allow officials to deploy resources more efficiently, according to the governor.

She said she is coordinating with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani on snow preparations for the city.

"Our state of emergency that is now in effect allows us to literally go in the streets of New York if they call and need our assistance with plowing or whatever they may need," Hochul said.

Hochul spoke about the freezing temperatures expected, which will feel like below zero. She warned residents to know the signs of frostbite, especially if they have to be outside during the dangerously cold weather. 

She advised stocking up on food, gas, emergency supplies and whatever else might be needed.

"Stay at home as much as possible," she said. 

Early voting suspended for NYC special election race Sunday

This weekend was supposed to be the first days of early voting for three New York City special elections. 

Hochul said that early voting will be suspended on Sunday, and possibly Monday as well. 

The Board of Elections will be notifying the voters in the three areas affected with additional hours to make up for any days lost.

"We are ready"

The Department of Transportation has been treating the major roads, and Hochul said there is 114,000 tons of salt.

Hochul said more than 5,000 utility workers are on standby to respond to any power outages.

The state is also prepared with 1,600 large plows, 149 medium plows and plenty of snowblowers. 

State employees to work remotely Monday

Hohcul said all state employees will work remotely on Monday, and encouraged other employers to do the same.

"The fewer people on the roads, the more our great team led by Commissioner Dominguez can be out there salting and clearing the snow and making the roads safe, particularly for emergency vehicles that must be there," Hochul said.

Hocul's tips for the storm

• Make sure you're stocked up on supplies: Food, blankets, water, flashlights
• Dress in layers if going outside
• Pre-charge cell phones
• If driving in the storm, bring cat litter and a shovel. You can put it on the snow and use it as traction if you drive off the road.
• Place rolled-up towels against the bottoms of doors to prevent cold air from getting inside

Projected snowfall amounts

New Yorkers should expect to see 6-12 inches of snow from Sunday to Monday. Heavy snow will engulf the city and northern suburbs while snow, sleet and freezing rain will be mainly south and east of the city.

Sunday morning will start with light to moderate snow, but it will ramp up at night.