Community

Blizzard Conditions Slam Rockland County as Powerful Bomb Cyclone Moves Through Region

Published

5 months ago

February 23, 2026

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — February 23, 2026 — A rapidly intensifying winter storm that developed into a powerful bomb cyclone has brought blizzard conditions to Rockland County, blanketing the region in heavy snow and battering it with strong, gusting winds.

The storm, part of a larger Northeast nor’easter system, intensified off the East Coast before pushing into the Lower Hudson Valley late Sunday into Monday. Forecasters warned that the system met the criteria for “bombogenesis,” meaning its central pressure dropped rapidly as it strengthened — a hallmark of some of the most severe winter storms to impact the region.

Heavy Snow and Dangerous Winds

Rockland County saw sustained periods of heavy snowfall overnight, with rates at times reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour. Snow totals across the county are estimated between 15 and 20 inches, with localized higher amounts in elevated areas.

Wind gusts approaching 50 mph created whiteout conditions across major roadways including the New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287) and the Palisades Interstate Parkway. Blowing and drifting snow significantly reduced visibility, making travel extremely hazardous.

State of Emergency and Travel Restrictions

County officials declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm’s peak, urging residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Plow crews have been working continuously to keep primary roads passable, though secondary and residential streets remain snow-covered in many communities including New City, Nanuet, Spring Valley, and Stony Point.

Public schools across Rockland County closed, and many municipal offices suspended operations. Officials emphasized that stranded vehicles not only put drivers at risk but also hinder snow removal operations.

Power Outages and Infrastructure Concerns

The combination of heavy, wet snow and strong winds has led to downed trees and scattered power outages throughout the county. Utility crews are assessing damage and prioritizing restoration efforts, though officials caution that some residents could remain without power until conditions fully improve.

Residents are advised to use generators safely, keep heating vents clear of snow buildup, and check on elderly neighbors during the prolonged cold.

Cleanup and Recovery

While snowfall is beginning to taper, wind gusts and blowing snow continue to complicate cleanup efforts. Officials warn that roads may remain slippery as temperatures fluctuate, potentially creating icy conditions overnight.

Emergency management teams continue coordinating response efforts and urge residents to monitor local alerts for updates.

Authorities remind residents that even after the snowfall ends, drifting snow and fallen limbs can pose ongoing hazards. Travel is discouraged until plowing operations are complete and visibility improves.

Community

Orangeburg Fire Department to Host Community Blood Drive Amid Blood Emergency

Published

3 hours ago

July 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

As blood supplies remain critically low, the Orangeburg Fire Department is encouraging residents to roll up their sleeves and help save lives by participating in an upcoming community blood drive.

The blood drive will be held Saturday, July 25, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Orangeburg Fire House, located at 61 Dutch Hill Road, Orangeburg.

Hosted in partnership with the New York Blood Center, the event comes as a blood emergency has been declared, highlighting the urgent need for donors to help replenish the region’s blood supply. Blood donations are essential for trauma victims, surgery patients, cancer treatments and others facing medical emergencies.

Appointments are preferred and can be made through the New York Blood Center at NYBC.org, although walk-in donors will be welcomed as space permits.

Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 with a signed parental consent form, meet minimum weight requirements, be feeling healthy and symptom-free, and bring a donor ID card or a photo ID.

Organizers also encourage donors to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of fluids before donating.

Every blood donation has the potential to save lives, making each donor’s contribution an important step in ensuring local hospitals have the blood they need when emergencies arise.

Community

Rockland Residents Urged to Donate Blood as Regional Supply Faces Ongoing Need

Published

3 hours ago

July 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

With only about 2% of eligible New Yorkers donating blood, maintaining an adequate blood supply remains an ongoing challenge for hospitals in Rockland County, the Hudson Valley and across the state.

Unlike many medical treatments, blood cannot be manufactured, and because blood products have a limited shelf life, the need for donors never ends. Red blood cells can be stored for about 42 days, while platelets remain usable for only five to seven days, requiring a constant supply of new donations to meet patient needs.

Blood transfusions play a critical role in treating trauma victims, surgical patients, cancer patients and others facing life-threatening medical emergencies. According to the New York Blood Center, a single blood donation can help save up to three lives.

To help strengthen the regional blood supply, Rockland Paramedic Services is partnering with the New York Blood Center to host a community blood drive on Wednesday, Aug. 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at RPS headquarters in New City as part of NYBC’s “Blood for a Brew” campaign.

As first responders, paramedics witness firsthand the importance of having blood readily available before an emergency occurs. Organizers say the event is intended to raise awareness of the region’s ongoing need for blood donors while encouraging eligible residents to make a donation that could benefit patients throughout the Hudson Valley.

Officials emphasize that maintaining a strong local and regional blood supply depends on regular donors. Because blood products expire quickly and demand remains constant, every donation helps ensure hospitals have lifesaving blood available when it is needed most.

Residents who are eligible to donate are encouraged to participate in the Aug. 6 blood drive and help support hospitals and patients across the region.