Mayor Adams Briefs Media on Preparations for Expected Winter New York Weather.
On New York’s Weather: Commissioner Jessica Tisch, Department of Sanitation said Good afternoon, everyone. We’re here to provide a briefing on winter weather expected to impact New York City tomorrow, Tuesday, February 13th. To start, I’d like to welcome our mayor, Eric Adams.
Mayor Eric Adams: Thank you. Appreciate everyone being here, and I want to express gratitude to the team. I received a briefing this morning; last week, our chief of staff informed me about the upcoming weather, and preparations began. Around 6:40 this morning, we received an update and took immediate action. Communicated with the chancellor for the operation of remote learning for our children.
We’ve been fortunate not to experience significant snowfall for a while. However, Mother Nature has her plans. I commend Commissioner Tisch and her team for their rapid response and coordination with all agencies involved.
We expect in New York weather that snow will be across the city tonight and into tomorrow. The current forecast predicts light rain around midnight, transitioning to snow tomorrow morning. We anticipate at least five to eight inches, possibly more. The forecast may shift, and we’ll keep New Yorkers informed.
Expect low visibility, high wind gusts, and up to two feet of coastal flooding along vulnerable shorelines. We take this storm very seriously and urge New Yorkers to be prepared. If possible, stay home and use public transportation to reduce road traffic, allowing our vehicles to handle snow removal more effectively.
We’re in close coordination with Governor Hochul’s team, and all relevant city agencies are activated for preparations. Salt spreaders and plows are ready, and I commend DSNY for their readiness. We’re doing everything to keep New Yorkers safe. City services will be available, but outdoor events are canceled. Public schools will have remote learning, and alternate side parking is canceled. A Code Blue is issued for unsheltered New Yorkers. Call 311 or 911 for assistance, and check on neighbors.
We have an election tomorrow, and poll sites are open in Queens and the Bronx. Commissioner?
Commissioner Tisch: Thank you, Mayor Adams. Commissioner Iscol will provide a more detailed weather briefing shortly. We expect winter weather, starting as rain around midnight, transitioning to snow between 4:00 and 7:00 a.m. Heavy snow is possible, and staying off the roads is crucial. The storm is expected to taper off in the afternoon, subject to change.
Beginning tonight, sanitation workers will salt and plow every street, highway, and bike lane. We have an extensive fleet and new GPS technology for efficient operations. New Yorkers are urged to stay off roads, and alternate side parking is canceled. Property owners must clear sidewalks for safety.
Now, Commissioner Iscol will provide additional information.
Commissioner Zach Iscol: Thank you, Commissioner Tisch, Mayor Adams. I appreciate the incredible work of our crews. We expect five to eight inches of snow, starting with rain tonight and shifting to snow in the early morning. Rates of one to two inches per hour could impact travel and visibility.
New York weather advisory is in effect. Travel delays are expected, so stay off the roads for safety and to aid sanitation crews. Our winter weather emergency plan is activated, coordinating with various agencies to ensure preparedness.
Thank you to our dedicated crews working around the clock to keep New Yorkers safe. Stay informed and take necessary precautions. Thank you.”
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