STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION

STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION

As Chief Executive of Columbia County, I exercise the authority granted to me under New York State Executive Law, Article 2-B to preserve the public safety and render all required and available assistance vital to the security, well-being, and health of the citizens of Columbia County.

Due to the major Winter Storm forecast to bring up to 24 inches of snow from 7AM today, January 25, 2026, through into tomorrow, January 26, 2026, a winter storm that is expected to create dangerous travel conditions, slow snow‑removal operations, and impact emergency response and, out of an abundance of caution and following a determination that public safety is at risk due to the impending storm, I, Matt B. Murell, Chairman of the Columbia County Board of Supervisors, hereby declare a State of Emergency with emergency TRAVEL BAN effecting travel within Columbia County, New York. As part of this declaration, and pursuant to my authority under New York State Executive Law, the following countywide TRAVEL BAN with restrictions will be in effect:

• All non‑essential vehicular travel is prohibited on public roadways within Columbia County.

• Only essential emergency vehicles and essential personnel are permitted to travel.

• Start: 12PM Noon on January 25, 2026

• End: 11AM on January 26, 2026 (unless extended or revoked)

Residents are urged to stay off the roads, allow plow crews to work safely and efficiently, and avoid putting themselves or first responders in danger.

This declaration and emergency TRAVEL BAN goes into effect on this date at 12PM Noon and applies to all areas within Columbia County. It shall remain in effect unless amended or rescinded. Issued this 25th day of January, 2026.