(Albany, NY) Friday, Jan. 23, 2026 – Today, Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs joined together with a host of City and County partners to prepare the public ahead of a storm that will sweep the Northeast. In Albany there will be a long duration of snowfall starting Sunday afternoon, hitting its peak Sunday night. The snowfall will end roughly Monday evening. Total snow accumulation could be between 10.5 to 18 inches. Albany will also be experiencing bitter cold temperatures throughout this weekend, with wind chill dropping temperatures as low as 25° below zero.
Department of General Services’ inclement weather procedure will begin Sunday at 7am. In coordination with City partners, including Albany hospitals, Albany Parking Authority, National Grid, CDTA, and others. DGS identifies primary, secondary and tertiary roads to be cleared. “Our (snow plan) is designed with our partners to make sure public safety is prioritized,” said DGS Commissioner Sergio Panunzio. Acting Water Department Commissioner Bill Simcoe reminded residents to be mindful of their plumbing ahead of cold temperatures. Often a lot of service leaks and water main leaks occur during this extreme cold. Chief Executive Officer of CDTA Frank Annicaro let people know that they are still running full scheduled service, but encouraged folks to visit CDTA.org, the Navigator App, or their social media for announcement of any delays. In response to the Mayor’s ask of residents to stay off the roads, “Use us,” CEO Frank Annicaro encouraged “We’ll be out there to help transport folks where they need to go.” CDTA will also be issuing a Cold Blue, which will ensure Albany’s unhoused populations can get to shelters fare-free. Albany Fire Department Chief Joseph Gregory shared some helpful reminders during a storm, such as charging devices in case the power goes out or keeping any flammable items at least 3 feet away from space heaters. He also reiterated the importance of not using a gas stove to heat your home. In the event of loss of heat, Albany Codes Department Valerie Scott is asking people to use Albany’s Non-Emergency Line, which will be included in the list of resources below. Albany Police Deputy Chief Melissa Morey echoed a similar public safety message. Today, APD’s Community Advocacy Response Team (CART) started doing proactive outreach to ensure that Albany’s unhoused populations have a place to go this weekend. When it comes to getting through these inclement weather events on the county level, “it takes coordination, partnerships, and working together,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy, “help us, help you.”
Additionally, Mayor Applyrs coordinated with local community organizations for any relevant information for the public to be aware of. Daniel Butterworth, Executive Director at Refugee & Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE) said, “RISSE wants to ensure that our immigrant neighbors are prepared for the winter storm and can access necessary services. We invite all residents to check in with their newcomer neighbors with limited English who may not be receiving news alerts. RISSE can help with HEAP applications, food access, winter safety information, and winter gear.”
Canyon Ryan, Executive Director at United Tenants of Albany said “UTA is proud to have partnered with Assembly Member Gabriella Romero to secure funding for emergency shelter, in the event that a household gets displaced because their apartment is unable to meet the basic expectations of providing heat, hot water, and electricity. No one should be sleeping outside, especially in these temperatures.”
Please see below for additional resources and hotlines. Mayor Applyrs would like to reiterate to residents to stay inside this Sunday and Monday, unless absolutely necessary. If you must go outside, take extra precaution and bundle up. If you see someone on the street, Joseph House Outreach Services can be of assistance. If you see someone in medical emergency, or have an emergency yourself, dial 9-1-1.
Unhoused residents can walk into the Capital City Resue Mission at 259 South Pearl Street and Safe Haven Drop-In Center at 26 South Swan Street
HATAS Homeless Hotline: 518-463-2124
Josephs House Outreach Services offer emergency provisions and shelter navigation for the unhoused during Cold Blue emergencies: 518-495-0663
Albany’s Non-Emergency Line: 518-438-4000
Albany Water Department Dispatch: 518-434-5322