01/25/2026
Important information.
The snow has started to fall, and here are important updates and reminders to help you stay safe and informed. ❄️🌨️
⚠️ Snow Emergency Status
At this time, a snow emergency has not been declared in Albany. That decision is made as the snow fall concludes, once the Department of General Services assesses conditions. We will continue to share updates as conditions evolve.
📲 Emergency and Weather Alerts
New York State offers free emergency and weather text alerts through the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.
To sign up, text ALBANY to 333111.
Do not include the word “county,” spaces, or punctuation. It is not case sensitive.
After signing up, you will receive alerts about severe weather, power outages, and response information such as shelter locations and warming centers.
The system works with all cell phone carriers. Message and data rates may apply.
Signing up is private, and the state does not track or monitor personal data.
If you are already registered for NY-ALERT, you do not need to sign up again.
To stop alerts, text STOP to 333111 and follow the prompts.
More information: https://www.dhses.ny.gov/emergency-alerts
🚨 Albany Police Department and Public Safety
Please avoid unnecessary travel. If travel is required, reduce speed and increase following distance. Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, including warm clothing, blankets, water, and a flashlight. Dress in warm layers, limit time outdoors, check on elderly neighbors and family members, and bring pets indoors. 🧤🐾
APD will be fully staffed and ready to respond.
APD CART teams are conducting proactive outreach to support vulnerable residents during the storm.
📞 Emergencies: 911
📞 Non-emergencies or loss of heat: 518-438-4000
🏠 Shelter and Outreach Resources
Walk-in shelters are available for anyone in need:
Capital City Rescue Mission, 259 South Pearl Street
Safe Haven Drop-In Center, 26 South Swan Street
Additional support:
Joseph’s House Outreach Services: 518-495-0663
HATAS Homeless Hotline: 518-463-2124
🚌 CDTA Service Updates
Bus service will continue during the storm, but some routes may use different buses that are better suited for snowy conditions. Please expect possible delays and allow extra time for travel. ⏱️
Real-time service updates, detours, and delays are available at cdta.org.
Northway Xpress and Thruway Xpress commuter services will not operate on Monday, 1/26.
The CDTA sales window at 85 Watervliet Avenue will be closed on Monday, 1/26.
STAR customers who no longer plan to travel should call 518-482-2022 as soon as possible to cancel reservations.
DRIVE electric car sharing will not take reservations on Sunday or Monday due to weather conditions.
💡 National Grid Update
National Grid has proactively scheduled expanded crew coverage through tomorrow evening. Current forecasts call for lighter, fluffier snow, which typically does not cause widespread outages. Crews will continue to monitor conditions closely.
To report outages or get restoration updates, visit Outage Central or call 1-800-867-5222.
🧊 Weather Conditions and Safety Reminders
Wind chills could reach 25 below zero.
✅ What to do:
Stay indoors if possible.
🔋 Charge phones and essential devices.
🚌 Use CDTA instead of driving when you can. Code Blue provides fare-free rides to shelters.
🚰 Protect pipes, extreme cold increases the risk of frozen lines.
🤝 Check on neighbors, especially seniors and newcomers.
❌ What not to do:
Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.
🔥 Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything flammable.
📢 Important Numbers
🚨 Emergency: 911
📞 Non-emergency or loss of heat: 518-438-4000
🚰 Albany Water Department Dispatch: 518-434-5322
Please stay informed, and stay safe.
