The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a weather alert for Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, warning residents about an approaching winter storm. The forecast predicts 1 to 2 inches of snow accumulation across the city, with a worst-case scenario of up to 4 inches. Another snow event is expected on Wednesday night into Thursday, bringing 0.5 to 1.5 inches of snow before transitioning into a wintry mix and rain by Thursday afternoon.
Mayor Eric Adams assured New Yorkers that city agencies are prepared to respond to the snowfall. The Department of Transportation, Department of Sanitation, and the New York City Emergency Management Department are coordinating efforts to ensure public safety. Residents are encouraged to sign up for Notify NYC for real-time updates and alerts.
New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol emphasized the importance of staying informed and prepared. He urged New Yorkers to monitor forecasts, exercise caution while traveling, and prioritize mass transit when possible. With Code Blue activated, the New York City Emergency Management Department is working to protect the city’s most vulnerable residents, and individuals who see someone in need of shelter should call 311.
Forecasted conditions may lead to slick roadways, especially on untreated surfaces, increasing the risk of travel delays and slippery conditions. The New York City Emergency Management Department advises residents to allow extra travel time, use mass transit when possible, and be cautious on bridges and overpasses where ice can form quickly.
The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) is fully prepared for snow removal, with over 700 million pounds of salt ready for deployment. Plows will be dispatched as soon as snow reaches the two-inch mark. The new Bladerunner 2.0 platform will be used to track operations in real-time, ensuring an efficient response to snowfall.
Building owners must comply with indoor heating regulations, maintaining at least 68 degrees indoors when the temperature falls below 55 degrees outside. Tenants experiencing heating issues should report them to 311 if their landlord does not address the problem.
With temperatures expected to drop below freezing, Code Blue Weather Alerts are in effect. The New York City Emergency Management Department has mobilized outreach teams to bring unsheltered individuals to shelters and safe spaces. Enhanced Code Blue measures will be implemented if extreme conditions persist, increasing outreach efforts.
New Yorkers are encouraged to take precautions against hypothermia and frostbite by wearing appropriate clothing and avoiding prolonged exposure to the cold. Outdoor workers should follow safety guidelines, and employers must provide protective equipment. Cold weather can also worsen chronic health conditions, so individuals with heart disease or high blood pressure should take extra precautions.
Residents should prepare for potential power outages by charging devices and keeping emergency supplies on hand. In case of an outage, individuals should contact their power provider immediately. Con Edison, National Grid, and PSEG Long Island have dedicated hotlines for reporting issues.
For fire safety, residents should ensure their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. Portable heaters should be used cautiously, with at least three feet of space from combustible materials. Never use gas stoves, charcoal grills, or propane heaters indoors, as they pose a serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
The New York City Emergency Management Department urges New Yorkers to check on vulnerable neighbors, including older adults and individuals with disabilities. Anyone requiring assistance should make arrangements in advance to ensure their safety during the storm.
Susan Shrestha
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