Dangerous Arctic Cold Set to Grip New York, Extreme Cold Warnings Issued

New York and the wider tri-state area are expected to experience dangerously cold weather this weekend as a powerful Arctic air mass moves into the region, bringing light snowfall, strong winds, and what forecasters warn could be the coldest conditions of the season.

Weather officials say light snow is likely from late Friday night into early Saturday morning, creating slick and hazardous road conditions. Several inches of snow could accumulate in parts of Long Island as well as areas north and west of New York City, increasing the risk of travel disruptions.

However, meteorologists caution that extreme cold—not snowfall—poses the greatest threat. By Saturday morning, temperatures are expected to drop into the single digits. Combined with strong winds, wind chill values could plunge to between minus 10 and minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Wind gusts exceeding 40 miles per hour may rapidly strip body heat, raising the risk of frostbite within minutes of exposure.

In response, extreme cold warnings have been issued for New York City and surrounding tri-state areas for both Saturday and Sunday. Authorities are urging residents to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple layers, and check on vulnerable neighbors, particularly the elderly and those with health conditions. Pet owners are also advised to keep animals indoors during the cold snap.

Due to the severity of the conditions, the New York City Department of Social Services has activated an Enhanced Code Blue. While a standard Code Blue is issued when temperatures or wind chills fall to 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, an Enhanced Code Blue is reserved for especially dangerous conditions. These include heavy snowfall, ice storms, sustained high winds, or wind chills below minus 5 degrees Fahrenheit.

City officials emphasized that no one seeking shelter will be turned away during this period. Individuals experiencing homelessness will be allowed to enter shelters without going through standard intake procedures. Residents who see someone exposed to the extreme cold are encouraged to call 311 so outreach teams can provide assistance.

Forecasters say conditions may begin to improve gradually early next week, though frigid temperatures are expected to persist for several more days.