As Central New York battles through hazardous weather, National Grid is reminding residents not to ignore this important safety alert.

Areas across the Mohawk Valley are bracing for heavy snow, dangerous winds, and bone-chilling temperatures this weekend.

Read More: Polar Vortex, Howling Winds, and Heavy Snow Slamming CNY

Areas could see as much as 3 feet of snow, gusts up to 45 miles per hour, and overnight temperatures as low as 5.

National Grid is making sure the lights stay on during this extended winter weather event. Restoring power during blizzard-like conditions can be treacherous, but there are things the general public can do to help with safety.

Freezing Temperature Hit Germany
Johannes Simon/Getty Images
loading...

Jared Paventi, Strategic Communications Manager for National Grid, shared what customers can do when they lose power.

Once the power goes out, "Customers can notify National Grid online to expedite restoration," said Paventi.  Those unable to get online can also text "OUT" to 64743

He stressed that those who depend on electrically powered life support equipment, like respirators, should call in their outage to National Grid at 1-800-642-4272. He added that in cases of medical emergencies to contact 911.

Customers can text "REG" to 64743 to sign up for outage alerts and restoration updates.

Customers can also visit the outage map that shows active issues across the state and restoration estimates.

Rivian Electric Car Charging Station
Mario Tama/Getty Images
loading...

Paventi also shared tips on generator safety.

He said generators should never be operated indoors because they can emit carbon monoxide, which is deadly.

"Before operating a generator, be sure to disconnect from National Grid’s system by shutting off the main breaker, located in the electric service panel," he continued. "Failure to do this could endanger our crews and your neighbors."

96.1 The Eagle logo
Get our free mobile app

That is why it's important to check on elderly family members and neighbors who might struggle during a power outage, he said. This helps prevent tragedy.

Oneida County is under a travel advisory, with County Executive Anthony Picente urging against unnecessary travel.

However, if one has to drive during the hazardous weather, Paventi urges motorists to "use caution when driving near emergency responders and crews restoring power."

Dallas Area Recovers From Rare Snow Storm That Closed Schools And Businesses
Tom Pennington/Getty Images
loading...

The heavy snow and whipping winds into the weekend could bring down trees and power lines, the National Weather Service warned.

Paventi warned the community to never approach a downed power line and "always assume they are carrying live electricity."

"Never touch a person or an object that is in contact with a downed line, as electricity can pass through to you," he continued. The same goes for approaching fallen trees near power lines, as they could have wires caught in them.

Paventi added, "Remember that water can conduct electricity. If you see a line down in a puddle or flooded area, avoid contact with the water to prevent risk of shock."

For those with specific questions, you can click here for additional details on National Gridl's storm preparation and restoration process.

50 Fantastic Facts About New York State

From America's Smallest Town to the birthplace of the potato chip, here are 50 fun and fantastic facts about New York State. Scroll through to see how many of these you already knew.

Gallery Credit: Karolyi

See New York Snowfall Predictions For January 1-3, 2025

2025 is officially underway and will kick off with a lot of snow for many in Central and Upstate New York! The National Weather Service has issued a Lake Effect Snow Warning for western and central New York and a Winter Weather Advisory for Northern New York. Some areas in Central New York could see as much as 36 inches of snow, while the greater Albany area will see minimal accumulations. Here are predicted snowfall totals from the National Weather Service.

Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff

16 Of New York State's Most Wanted Criminals- January 2025

Below are individuals wanted by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision's (DOCCS) Office of Special Investigations who have been designated as its Most Wanted Fugitives. They should be considered armed and dangerous. This list is current as of 1/01/2025:

NEVER attempt to apprehend a fugitive yourself. If you have information on the location of any of these fugitives, you can contact OSI 24 hours a day / 7 days a week to report it. All leads and tips are treated as confidential information.

If an immediate response is necessary, such as you see the wanted person at a location, please call “911” and report it to the police.

Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler