Officials Report 10 Dead in NYC Cold, Including Woman with Dementia
In New York City, frigid weather has resulted in significant tragic events, with at least 10 deaths reported since Saturday, including a 90-year-old woman with dementia.
Tragic Deaths Amid Extreme Cold
Doreen Ellis, a beloved great-grandmother and longtime landlady from Trinidad, was found deceased in the snow in Crown Heights. Family members stated that she wandered outside her apartment, dressed only in a nightgown and one sock. She was discovered dead on Monday morning, leaving the community in shock.
Officials report that Ellis’s case is part of a worrying trend, as the city has recorded numerous deaths linked to the dangerous cold snap. Temperatures dropped to the low teens over the weekend, exacerbated by a winter storm that blanketed the area with heavy snowfall.
Mayor’s Response
Mayor Zohran Mamdani acknowledged the urgency of the situation during a press conference. He stated medical examiners are investigating the causes of these deaths, and there is an ongoing effort to assist those exposed to dangerously low temperatures.
- Mayor Mamdani urged residents to keep watch for vulnerable individuals during this cold spell.
- His administration is enhancing homeless outreach services.
- Hospitals are being asked to limit overnight discharges to prevent discharging patients into the cold.
Outreach Efforts and Community Support
City officials, along with faith groups and advocacy organizations, are increasing outreach to the city’s homeless population. They are focusing on approximately 350 individuals known to have underlying health conditions who are at heightened risk during seasonal cold weather.
Molly Wasow Park, the commissioner of social services, highlighted that outreach workers are attempting to check on these individuals every two hours. However, community organizations, such as the Legal Aid Society, have raised concerns about historical mistrust towards outreach programs.
Warming Centers Opened
To combat the perilous conditions, the city is also establishing warming centers. Residents needing shelter can find locations by calling 311 or visiting the city’s website. Emergency management officials emphasize that extreme weather is a communal challenge and that New Yorkers must come together to support one another.
- Individuals without reliable heating are at the highest risk of hypothermia.
- Residents are advised to limit outdoor time and dress appropriately for the cold.
Community Impact
Doreen Ellis was known as a pillar of her community, frequently engaging with neighbors and playing an active role in her local church. Her passing underscores the critical need for community vigilance and support during extreme weather events.
In summary, the recent fatalities, including that of Ellis, highlight the importance of looking out for vulnerable members of the community during this harsh winter period. The city’s response continues to evolve as officials work to provide necessary resources and ensure the safety of all New Yorkers.
