NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Winter Storm Preparedness and Bronx Fire Response

Response to Bronx Fire

• 🚒 A four-alarm fire in the Bronx tragically resulted in one fatality and injured 15 New Yorkers.
• 🤝 The city government provided a "whole of government response," with FDNY, EMS, NYPD, DOB, and NISM working together.
• 🏠 148 apartments were vacated, and a reception center was opened for displaced residents, with support from the Red Cross.
• 🔍 An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.

Winter Storm Preparedness and Forecast

• ❄️ Snowfall is expected to begin late Saturday, intensifying by 5:00 a.m. Sunday, with 2-6 inches anticipated before midday.
• 💨 Heavy snowfall, near blizzard conditions, and low visibility are expected Sunday, with winds up to 35 mph.
• 🥶 The storm will bring intense cold, with frigid temperatures lasting through the following week, the coldest sustained period in approximately 8 years.
• 📈 At least 8-9 inches of snow are expected, with potential for more.

City Government and Worker Readiness

• 🛠️ City workers have been preparing for days, with DSNY brining highways and major roadways.
• 💻 Public school staff ensured students have devices for potential remote learning.
• 🚨 Enhanced readiness measures are in place for FDNY, MTA, and NYC Emergency Management.
• 🗺️ Lessons from past snowstorms, analyzed through 311 reports, are being used to address service shortcomings.

Public Safety and Homeless Services

• ⚠️ A declared Code Blue for homeless services continues, with outreach workers connecting individuals to shelter.
• 🚪 Hospitals, drop-in centers, and shelters have an open-door policy, ensuring sufficient shelter beds.
• 📞 New Yorkers needing warmth access can call 311, which will be rerouted through 911 during Code Blue periods.

Public Advisory and School Decisions

• 🚫 A hazardous travel advisory will be in effect Sunday and Monday; New Yorkers are urged to avoid travel.
• 🚴 City Bike service will be suspended starting Saturday at noon.
• 🗳️ Early voting is suspended for Sunday and Monday.
• 🏫 A decision on whether Monday will be an in-person or remote learning day for public schools will be announced by 12:00 p.m. Saturday, prioritizing safety.
• 💻 Significant stress testing has been done to ensure remote learning systems can handle a large influx of students.