Ulster County Issues Travel Ban Ahead of Major Winter Storm

Published on January 24, 2026

KINGSTON, NY - Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger has issued a Local Emergency Order(PDF, 289KB) establishing a Countywide travel ban beginning Sunday, January 25 at 7 AM, in advance of a long‑duration winter storm expected to bring significant snow accumulations and hazardous conditions.

The storm is forecast to create dangerous travel conditions, slow snow‑removal operations, and impact emergency response. Out of an abundance of caution, and following a determination that public safety is at risk due to the impending storm, the following restrictions will be in effect:

TRAVEL BAN DETAILS

• All non‑essential vehicular travel is prohibited on public roadways within Ulster County.
• Only essential emergency vehicles and essential personnel are permitted to travel.
• Start: 7 AM on January 25, 2026
• End: 12 PM 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.

Additional updates will be provided on the home page of the County website: www.ulstercountyny.gov/Home, and shared through Ulster County’s official channels.

For additional information on storm response, visit ulstercountyny.gov/Departments/Emergency-Services

*A copy of Executive Order #1 is attached to this release.