Governor Hochul Declares State of Emergency for NYC Ahead of Blizzard Impacting Queens

QUEENS, NY – Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a State of Emergency for New York City and several other counties, including Queens, in anticipation of a significant blizzard. The declaration, aimed at bolstering preparedness and response efforts, emphasizes the potential for severe weather conditions to impact daily life and transportation across the borough, including the bustling corridor of Cross Bay Boulevard.

The State of Emergency was announced to facilitate a coordinated response to the impending winter storm, which is expected to bring heavy snowfall, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions. The declaration covers areas such as Albany, Bronx, Columbia, Greene, Delaware, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Ulster, and Westchester counties, reflecting the broad reach of the weather system.

Preparedness Measures for Queens Residents

With the State of Emergency in effect, Queens residents, particularly those in low-lying areas and along critical thoroughfares like Cross Bay Boulevard, are urged to take immediate precautions. This includes securing outdoor items, stocking up on essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, and medications, and ensuring all communication devices are charged. Residents should also prepare for potential power outages by having flashlights and extra batteries readily available.

City agencies, including the Department of Sanitation (DSNY) and the Office of Emergency Management (OEM), are mobilizing resources for snow removal and emergency assistance. Plows and salt spreaders will be deployed across Queens' main roads and residential streets, but residents should anticipate significant travel delays and possibly impassable side streets. For families residing along Cross Bay Boulevard and its feeder streets, limiting non-essential travel is strongly advised to allow emergency services and snow removal crews to operate efficiently.

Impact on Local Transportation and Services

The blizzard is expected to severely disrupt public transportation services in Queens. Bus routes may be curtailed or suspended, and subway service could face delays or cancellations. Drivers are advised to stay off the roads as conditions are anticipated to become treacherous, with reduced visibility and icy patches. The declaration also allows for increased flexibility in deploying state resources, including the National Guard if necessary, to assist with emergency situations.

Local businesses along Cross Bay Boulevard, from Rockaway Boulevard down to the Rockaways, may experience temporary closures or reduced operating hours due to the weather. Residents are encouraged to check with individual establishments before venturing out. Emergency services, including hospitals and first responders, will remain operational, prioritizing life-threatening situations. Community centers in Queens may also be activated as warming shelters if prolonged power outages occur, providing vital support to those affected by the storm.

Key Points:

• Governor Hochul declared a State of Emergency for NYC, including Queens, due to an impending blizzard.
• Residents of Queens, including those on Cross Bay Boulevard, should prepare for heavy snow and hazardous conditions.
• Anticipate significant disruptions to transportation and potential business closures.
• The declaration enables coordinated state and city emergency response efforts.