Arctic Air Hits City, Delivering Coldest Weather in Years
Arctic air swept through the city over the weekend, ushering in some of the coldest weather witnessed in three years. Wind chill factors frequently dipped below zero, with actual temperatures feeling as frigid as negative 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This sudden chill prompted city officials to issue an Extreme Cold Warning, which was the first of its kind since its establishment in 2024.
Cold Weather Emergency Response
As temperatures plunged, Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced significant measures to assist vulnerable residents. Approximately 60 new hotel shelter units were made available, alongside 62 warming centers throughout the city. Notably, various partnerships with educational institutions and healthcare providers have enhanced support options for those needing shelter.
Safety Measures and Outreach
- Extreme Cold Warning issued from 6 p.m. Saturday to 1 p.m. Sunday.
- Wind gusts reached up to 50 mph, intensifying the cold conditions.
- 17 fatalities reported due to outdoor exposure during recent cold weather.
In a significant push to engage those at risk, outreach operations have been expanded. This includes the involvement of trained school nurses who work alongside the Department of Homeless Services to encourage individuals to seek shelter. Mayor Mamdani emphasized the critical nature of this cold spell, urging the public to help those in need.
Community Support Efforts
Warming centers have been established across the city, with prominent locations including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School in Midtown Manhattan. A warming bus was also deployed near Times Square, filled with New Yorkers escaping the harsh temperatures.
Advocates for the homeless have urged the city to further increase outreach. Staff attorney Josh Goldfein from the Legal Aid Society highlighted the challenges faced in convincing some people to enter shelters due to a long-standing distrust of city services.
Call for Assistance
The mayor encouraged Miami residents to report anyone in need of shelter by calling 311. This outreach initiative aims to connect those on the streets with medical assistance and safe living conditions as the brutal Arctic air continues to affect the city.
