NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Briefs on Major Winter Storm Preparedness

Winter Storm Forecast and Impact

• ❄️ A major winter storm is predicted to hit New York City, with snowfall potentially reaching a foot or more, one of the largest in years.
• 🥶 The storm will bring cold temperatures and high winds, necessitating city-wide preparedness across all government levels.
• ⚠️ A hazardous travel advisory will be in effect for Sunday and Monday, urging New Yorkers to stay home.

City Government and Sanitation Response

• 🧼 The sanitation department began brining highways and major roadways at 6 a.m. to prevent snow and ice from sticking.
• 🚚 Over 2,000 DSNY collection trucks will be transformed into the nation's largest snowfighting operation, with workers starting 12-hour shifts.
• 🌨️ 700 salt spreaders will be deployed with the first snowflakes, and 2,200 plows will activate once two inches of snow accumulate, monitored by the Bladeunner 2.0 system.

Addressing Homelessness and Vulnerable Populations

• 🆘 A Code Blue has been enacted, with outreach workers canvassing to connect homeless New Yorkers with shelter.
• 🏠 Department of Homeless Services (DHS) is bypassing intake procedures to expedite shelter access for those in need.

Education and Schooling Decisions

• 🏫 A decision on whether schools will be in-person or virtual will be communicated by noon on Sunday.
• 💻 The city is prepared for remote learning, having stress-tested the system to handle a million students logging in simultaneously within 60 seconds.
• 🚫 PSAL activities and other extended use permits for Sunday are cancelled.

MTA and Public Transportation Preparedness

• 🚆 The MTA will remain operational, with detailed plans to protect the network, riders, and employees.
• 🚌 The bus network is ready to adapt, with 35 snowfighting vehicles and all buses fitted with chains, though articulated buses will be out of service.
• 🌉 Bridges and tunnels are equipped with over 9,000 tons of deicer and 100 pieces of equipment.

Public Communication and Safety

• 📢 New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for Notify NYC for real-time updates and alerts.
• 🏠 The primary message is for New Yorkers to stay home and stay off the roads to allow city workers to perform their duties safely and effectively.
• 🚑 Plans are in place to ensure ambulances and emergency crews can access streets, with a focus on preventing preventable outcomes.