Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor Declares Emergency Amid Historic Winter Storm
Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor has declared a state of emergency due to a historic winter storm that has heavily impacted the region. This snowfall marks the second-worst snowstorm in three decades, causing significant paralysis in various neighborhoods across the city.
Pittsburgh Faces Historic Winter Storm
On Monday, city officials held a press conference to address the situation. They reported that their snow-clearing efforts were going well until mechanical issues arose. More than a third of the city’s plow trucks are currently out of service, compounding the challenges of snow removal.
Current Conditions and Response
- 37 out of 95 plow trucks are in repairs.
- Remaining trucks are struggling to keep up with snow accumulation.
In response to the snowstorm’s severity, Mayor O’Connor announced the state of emergency to mobilize additional resources. This declaration allows the city to hire private contractors to assist in snow removal operations.
Quotes from the Mayor
Mayor O’Connor emphasized the necessity of this measure, stating, “We are now declaring a state of emergency in the city of Pittsburgh. This gives us the power to bring in additional help and support.” He explained that this support would include not only plowing but also hauling snow away from affected neighborhoods.
Concerns Over Aging Fleet
The city’s aging fleet of snowplows has faced criticism from residents, who have voiced concerns about unplowed streets, especially in the past month. Officials are aware of the issue and have plans for improvements, but immediate action is required to mitigate the current emergency.
In conclusion, Pittsburgh is actively seeking assistance to confront the challenges posed by this historic winter storm while addressing long-term fleet issues. Residents are encouraged to stay informed as the situation develops.
