County Executive Adam Bello Urges Residents To Take Precautions Ahead Of Expected Winter Storm

January 23rd, 2026

Heavy snow and subzero temperatures to impact Monroe County through Monday

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Monroe County Executive Adam Bello is urging residents to take precautions during the heavy snow and extreme cold temperatures expected to impact our region this weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory and Winter Weather Advisory for Monroe County in effect through 10:00 a.m. Saturday. Wind gusts as high as 40 mph and wind chills as low as 25 under zero will significantly impact road conditions, visibility and public safety. Additionally, a Winter Storm Watch will be in effect from 1:00 a.m. Sunday through 7:00 p.m. Monday, with heavy snow and potentially significant accumulations expected.

Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency ahead of the impending storm. Residents are encouraged to monitor local television, radio, and Monroe County social media for the latest updates on conditions.

"I am urging our community to stay prepared, stay informed, and most importantly, stay safe during these dangerous winter weather events," said County Executive Bello. "Staying indoors and updated on local conditions, and limiting unnecessary travel helps prevents unnecessary risk."

Code Blue

A Code Blue designation is in effect across New York State. Monroe County's Department of Human Services will be conducting outreach efforts to offer homeless individuals emergency housing. If anyone is in need of shelter, or knows someone who is, please call the 211 Life Line to access assistance. If our shelters reach capacity, alternate arrangements will be made.

During Code Blue, individuals in need can also request free transportation via RTS to a warming shelter in the City of Rochester at any bus stop. If the nearest shelter is already on the bus route, the bus will transport them directly there. If a participating warming center is not on the bus route, the bus will transport them to the RTS transit center, where an RTS employee will escort them to the appropriate bus route that will take them to a shelter with available space.

Monroe County Warming Center Sites:

• Open Door Mission, 156 N Plymouth Ave., Rochester, RTS Routes: 15, 21

• House of Mercy, 285 Ormond St., Rochester, RTS Route 3

• Saving Grace Ministries (men only), 1140 Norton St., Rochester, RTS Route 4, 5

• Oak Orchard, First Baptist Church, 124 Main St., Brockport, transportation available through RTS OnDemand

Winter Weather Safety Tips

• Keep your phones and devices charged.

• Remember to keep all heat sources (space heaters) at least three feet away from clothing, furniture and drapes.

• Bring pets inside.

• Check on elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors.

• Cover up or stay inside to avoid frostbite and hypothermia. In extreme weather these conditions can occur in minutes.

• Check the batteries in smoke and CO detectors, and make sure exterior vents are free of snow and ice.

Extreme Cold Tips

• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack-a major cause of death in the winter. Use caution, take breaks, push the snow instead of lifting it when possible, and lift lighter loads.

• If you must go outside, wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.

• Wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to reduce heat loss.

• Keep space heater safety in mind: use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Remember to keep all heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes.

• Plan to check on elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors.

• Plan to bring pets inside.

Fire Safety Tips

• Never discard your fireplace ashes or smoking materials in a garbage pail or recycling bin.

• Keep fire hydrants visible and clear of snow.

• In the event of fire, close the door behind you.

Vehicle Tips

• Keep an extra emergency kit in your car. In addition to the basic essentials, consider adding a portable cell phone charger, ice scraper, extra blanket, sand for traction and jumper cables.
• Keep enough charge or fuel to ensure you can safely get to and from your intended destination.