Largest Blizzard Since 2016 Set to Hit New York

NEW YORK — New York City is preparing for its biggest blizzard in years, with predicted snowfall of 18-24 inches and wind gusts reaching 60 mph, impacting approximately 30 million people along the U.S. East Coast. However, Mayor Mamdani has yet to commit to forcing homeless individuals into shelters.

The latest meteorological forecasts indicate snowfall could reach 13-17 inches, possibly exceeding 20 inches in some worst-case scenarios. This could be the first blizzard to hit New York since 2016.

19 Homeless Died Outdoors During Previous Snow Event

Mayor Mamdani's decision is controversial, given the severe consequences of the recent major snow event on January 26. According to the city's Medical Examiner's Office, 19 individuals were found deceased outdoors, with at least 15 cases attributed to hypothermia.

Despite this, at a press conference in Lower Manhattan on Saturday, Mayor Mamdani did not announce that mandatory measures would be implemented to move homeless people into shelters.

Outreach Campaign Instead of Enforcement

Mayor Mamdani stated that an outreach campaign for the homeless would begin at 4 PM on Saturday, emphasizing that the focus is on "connecting homeless individuals with safe shelters, warming vans, and other options" rather than enforcement.

The city also announced a temporary halt to all homeless encampment clearings during the blizzard.

Dangerous Travel Warnings and Coastal Flooding Risk

City officials have issued several important warnings for residents:

  • Extremely dangerous travel conditions are possible on Monday morning due to sub-freezing temperatures, causing melted snow to refreeze into ice on roads.
  • There is a risk of coastal flooding in Jamaica Bay, the Battery area of Lower Manhattan, and parts of Staten Island.

School Closure Decision to Be Announced Sunday Noon

Mayor Mamdani stated that the decision on school closures would be made by Sunday noon. During the previous snow event, he faced strong criticism for choosing to shift students to online learning instead of canceling classes due to snow.

Furthermore, the city has suspended alternate side parking regulations for Monday, and trash and recycling collection are expected to be delayed by at least one day due to the blizzard's impact.