STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Mayor Zohran Mamdani confirmed that at least five New Yorkers passed away since the weekend’s steep temperature drop began.
In an interview with The Weather Channel’s meteorologist Jim Cantore, Mamdani said that while it is too early to say how these New Yorkers died, it “is a reminder of how hazardous these conditions can be.”
Homeless New Yorkers are a major concern in this below-freezing weather; that’s why “every two hours, we have city workers who are canvassing homeless New Yorkers, connecting them with services, connecting them with shelter. We are bypassing all typical intake procedures. We’re just trying to get people in,” Mamdani said.
Each borough has two warming centers active in the storm.
Cantore’s presence in New York City alone is an omen to many on social media as a marker of how bad this storm will become over the course of Sunday.
Cantore said that the snow is “coming down at an inch an hour” Sunday morning, predicting we will see about 10 inches of snow.
As of 12:15 p.m., The Weather Channel places New York City at a frosty 16 degrees, though it feels more like zero with the wind chill.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a state of emergency on Friday, January 23 in preparation for the snowstorm thrashing New York, warning of the dangers of being outside in such conditions.
“Winter in New York is nothing we can’t handle, but it is important to take the risks that come with extreme cold seriously,” Hochul said on Friday. “New Yorkers should avoid travel during the snow, especially with the danger that comes with being stranded in these cold temperatures. If you must travel, be sure to leave yourself extra travel time and pack your car with supplies like blankets, water, and snacks. Safety is always the top priority, so make sure you are ready to face this storm.”