Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus has declared a “Local State of Emergency” due to an ongoing winter storm. The declaration, under Article 2-B, Section 24 of New York State Executive Law, gives county officials the authority to temporarily change normal operating procedures to address the emergency.
Officials may take actions such as saving lives, mitigating property damage, limiting access to affected areas, and requesting additional assistance from New York State. Residents have been advised not to travel unless they are considered essential personnel. County employees should only report to work if they are classified as essential; those unsure of their status are instructed to contact their department head.
All vehicular and pedestrian traffic on county roads is restricted except for essential workers in medical fields, law enforcement, municipal services, and other designated roles involved in managing the emergency.
County Executive Neuhaus stated: “I want to thank County residents for staying home and off the roads, which allows the public works and first responders to do what they have to more efficiently and effectively. We have had a limited number of accidents thus far, which is due in large part to your cooperation. I also want to thank my emergency management team, public works personnel, and first responders who are out working to make sure our community stays safe.”
The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been fully activated since 7:00 a.m. on Sunday with multiple agencies present—including Central Hudson, Orange and Rockland Utilities, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, NY State Police, and the county’s own teams—and will remain operational until at least 3:00 p.m. Monday or longer if needed.
Due to low temperatures associated with the storm, Code Blue protocols are active across the county. Currently about 80 individuals are being monitored in shelters. Residents aware of someone without housing or needing non-emergency assistance are encouraged to call 311. A list of available warming centers can be found on the Orange County Government website.
County government buildings will be closed on Monday—including the Government Center, County Clerk’s office, DMV offices, all courts—due to weather conditions. Most local schools have also announced closures; residents should check district websites or social media for updates.
Municipalities within Orange County may use existing county contracts for emergency procurement needs during this period.
Snowfall is expected to continue with significant accumulation possible along with ice or sleet in some areas. Officials urge caution when removing snow.
Residents can monitor official updates via Orange County Government’s website and social media channels (https://www.facebook.com/OrangeCountyGovernment and https://www.facebook.com/OrangeCountyEmergencyManagement) and should follow any further safety instructions issued by authorities.
