New York City is bracing for another round of dangerously cold weather as officials respond to a rising number of cold-related deaths. As of Monday, Mayor Zohran Mamdani reported 16 people have been found dead outside across the five boroughs during the current frigid spell.
Rising Toll and City Response
Preliminary data suggests hypothermia is a factor in at least 13 of these deaths, with three others appearing to be overdose-related. Final autopsy results are still pending. Mayor Mamdani is expected to provide an update at a news briefing on Tuesday.
The mayor has emphasized that the city is taking “every possible measure to get New Yorkers inside.” This includes intensified outreach efforts by the Department of Social Services, homeless outreach workers, and NYPD officers. In 16 instances, individuals were involuntarily transported to shelters due to concerns for their safety.
Expanded Resources
The city’s response also includes warming shelters, increased shelter capacity, relaxed intake requirements, and collaboration with faith-based organizations. According to Mayor Mamdani, over 860 people have been placed in shelters and safe havens since the start of the emergency period.
Another Arctic blast is forecast to arrive this weekend, bringing dangerously low temperatures and wind chills. Lows could drop into the single digits overnight Saturday into Sunday, with continued frigid conditions expected on Monday. A potential easing of the cold is anticipated around Valentine’s Day weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Code Blue”?
“Code Blue” is a protocol initiated by the city on January 19th to address extreme cold weather conditions and provide assistance to those experiencing homelessness.
How many people have been placed in shelters?
Since the start of the emergency period, the city has successfully placed more than 860 people into shelters and safe havens.
What is the forecast for the coming weekend?
Another Arctic blast is expected to move in this weekend, with lows dropping into the single digits overnight Saturday into Sunday and continued cold temperatures on Monday.
As New York City prepares for another wave of extreme cold, what role can communities play in supporting vulnerable populations during these challenging conditions?
