Albany, NY – As the Christmas season continues and millions prepare to travel, New York is bracing for a powerful Arctic blast that’s expected to bring dangerous cold, snow, and slick roads through the weekend. Forecasters say temperatures could dip into the teens statewide, with wind chills near or below zero in upstate areas and along the Hudson Valley.
The same Arctic air mass driving this pattern has stretched across much of the country, with subfreezing temperatures as far south as Florida, which was under a Freeze Warning Friday morning. For New York, the result will be icy highways, bursts of lake-effect snow off Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, and potential travel slowdowns on major routes including I-87, I-90, and I-81.
State transportation officials are warning motorists to prepare now for winter conditions. Every vehicle should carry a cold-weather emergency kit — especially for long trips during the busy Christmas travel period. Recommended supplies include bottled water, snacks, blankets, gloves, jumper cables, and a flashlight. A shovel, sand or cat litter for traction, and a portable phone charger can be vital if stranded in the cold. Keeping a full tank of gas also prevents freezing and ensures warmth if traffic stalls.
Drivers should check forecasts before leaving, allow extra time for travel, and keep a safe distance from plows and salt trucks. Reduced visibility and blowing snow are likely across open stretches of upstate highways.
As Arctic air tightens its grip and holiday travel peaks, preparedness remains the best protection. A few minutes spent checking your vehicle could mean a safer, warmer trip home this Christmas season.
