The death toll in New York City has reached 18 following the recent cold snap, according to Mayor Zohran Mamdani. CBS News reports that Mayor Mamdani emphasized support for the affected families. The city has encouraged people experiencing homelessness to seek shelter, arranging 1,400 placements in shelters and safe havens, while an additional 33 individuals were transported involuntarily for safety reasons.
An autopsy determined that at least five victims died from hypothermia, with intoxication contributing to at least four of these cases. Residents of New York have been impacted by the persistent cold following a major snowstorm. CBS News reported a coffee cart operator saying, "My hands are frozen. It's not possible to work." Transportation has also been affected, with some Tri-State school districts announcing delays.
In response to the situation, the mayor has expanded the city’s warming resources. CBS News reports that 60 additional hotel shelter units, 12 school-based warming centers, and 33 warming buses have been made available. Efforts have been increased with the deployment of 150 additional outreach workers and 50 school nurses to assist those in need. Officials are also working to reduce 311 wait times to better support New Yorkers without access to warm shelter.
The city’s sanitation department is working to clear the snow and ice that have accumulated across the urban area following the snowstorm. Citi Bike has also been affected, with most of its docking stations expected to be cleared by the end of the day, compared with about 22% that were accessible less than a week ago.
Residents have been advised to wear appropriate clothing to protect against the cold, with doctors highlighting the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, particularly for individuals with conditions such as diabetes or nerve damage. ABC7NY reports that officials are encouraging people going outdoors to layer up and contact 311 if they encounter someone in need. During this period of persistent cold, the city continues to face significant challenges as workers and residents cope with the extreme temperatures.
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