Blizzard Warning for DYCD Programs

Good morning Community Partner,

This is an alert from the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) issued 2/21/26 at 6:00pm.

The National Weather Service has issued the following:

What: Blizzard Warning

Where: NYC

When: 6:00AM on Sunday, February 22, 2026 to 6:00PM Monday, February 23, 2026

Hazards:

13-18 inches of snow, 25-35 mph winds with gusts up to 55 mph, and .25 visibilities expected. These conditions may cause power outages and difficult travel conditions. Avoid unnecessary travel. If you must travel, use mass transit.

Preparedness Actions:

Before an Outage

• Charge cell phones
• Gather supplies
• Turn refrigerator/freezers to a colder setting

During an Outage

• Stay clear of downed power lines
• Turn off all appliances
• Keep refrigerator/freezer doors closed to prevent food spoilage
• Do not use generators indoors
• If you have a disability/access needs or use Life Sustaining Equipment & need immediate assistance, dial 911.

 For winter weather health and safety tips: http://on.nyc.gov/winter-weather-health-safety.

 For the latest weather info: www.weather.gov/okx/.

DYCD Guidance:

Programs should take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of participants and staff:

·         Review your emergency preparedness plans and be prepared to adjust program operations if needed.

·         If outdoor activities or trips are scheduled, please monitor conditions closely and be ready to cancel or reschedule as appropriate.

·         Ensure that participants and staff remain in safe indoor locations during periods of intense winter weather.

·         Pay special attention to participants who may be more vulnerable, including seniors, children, or those with health conditions.

·         Discuss contingency plans with staff in advance in case of service disruptions.

If you have concerns about health and safety that may impact program services or issues maintaining services due to the weather, please reach out to your DYCD Program/Initiative Manager for guidance or to discuss a plan of action. 

Thank you

NYC Department of Youth & Community Development

2 Lafayette Street, 20th Floor

New York, NY 10007

Phone (646) 343-6340

www.nyc.gov/dycd | vlopez@dycd.nyc.gov

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