NYC Mayor Mamdani on Winter Storm Preparations and Apartment Fire Response

Winter Storm Preparedness and Response

• ❄️ New York City is preparing for a significant winter storm expected to bring 8 to 12 inches of snow, with snowfall beginning around midnight and intensifying by 5 AM Sunday.
• 💨 The storm will include heavy snowfall rates, very low visibility, and winds up to 35 mph, potentially causing whiteout or near blizzard conditions.
• 🥶 Following the snow, the city anticipates a prolonged period of frigid temperatures, colder than any sustained period in approximately 8 years.
• 🛠️ City workers have been working tirelessly, with DSNY brining all highways and major roadways, and parks workers presalting parks.
• 📚 Public school staff have prepared devices for remote learning and conducted pressure testing to ensure seamless virtual operations if needed.
• 📈 The emergency management department has activated its winter weather plan, reviewed 311 reports from past storms to address past shortcomings, and is ensuring all agencies are working in lockstep.
• 🚗 A hazardous travel advisory will be in effect, and New Yorkers are urged to avoid driving and traveling if possible.

Apartment Fire and Emergency Response

• 🔥 A fire in an apartment building has been brought under control by the FDNY, resulting in 15 injuries and one fatality.
• 🏠 All 148 apartments have been vacated, with utilities shut down, and a reception center has been established for displaced residents with the help of the Red Cross.
• 🤝 The city is providing a "whole of government response," with FDNY, EMS, NYPD, DOB, and NISM working together to manage the scene and support those affected.
• 🔍 An investigation into the cause of the fire, believed to be a boiler explosion, is underway.

Homeless Services and Code Blue

• ⚠️ The city has declared a Code Blue, which remains in effect, with outreach workers canvassing to connect homeless New Yorkers with shelter.
• 🛌 All hospitals, DHS drop-in centers, and shelters have an open-door policy, ensuring enough beds are available for everyone in need.
• 📞 New Yorkers are encouraged to call 311 if they or someone they know requires access to warmth, with 311 calls rerouted through 911 during Code Blue periods.

School Operations and Decision Making

• 🏫 A decision regarding whether Monday will be an in-person or remote learning day for NYC public schools will be made by 12 PM Sunday.
• ⚖️ The decision will prioritize the safety of students, parents, and educators, while also considering the significant impact on parents' schedules.
• 💻 The school system has conducted significant stress testing to ensure readiness for remote learning if that decision is made.