Key Takeaways:
- The NYC Department of Sanitation is hiring emergency snow shovelers to help with winter storm cleanup in public areas, with pay starting at $19.14 per hour.
- The Queensboro Bridge has reopened after being closed due to icy conditions, but drivers are advised to exercise caution.
- New York City is expecting 2-5 inches of snow, with the heaviest accumulation likely to occur overnight.
- A state of emergency has been declared in New York, with over 5,000 utility crews ready to be deployed in case of power outages.
- Residents are advised to avoid travel, stay indoors, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the storm.
Introduction to the Winter Storm
The winter storm that hit the Tri-State Area has brought significant snowfall and icy conditions, causing disruptions to daily life. The storm has led to the closure of roads, cancellation of flights, and declaration of states of emergency in New York and New Jersey. The NYC Department of Sanitation has deployed salt spreaders and snow plows to clear the roads, and the city has issued a Code Blue to protect homeless individuals from the freezing temperatures.
Snowfall and Road Conditions
The snowfall in the Tri-State Area has been significant, with some areas receiving up to 12 inches of snow. The roads have become slippery and hazardous, making it difficult for drivers to navigate. The Queensboro Bridge was closed due to icy conditions, but it has since reopened. The NYC Department of Sanitation has been working to clear the roads, but the snowfall has been heavy, making it a challenging task. The department has also issued a reminder to landlords to shovel sidewalks within four hours or 14 hours, depending on when it stops snowing.
States of Emergency and Preparations
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency, which covers over half of the counties in the state. The declaration allows for the deployment of resources and personnel to respond to the storm. New Jersey has also declared a state of emergency, with Acting Governor Tahesha Way urging people to avoid driving if possible. The states have prepared for the storm by deploying utility crews, salt trucks, and snow plows to clear the roads and restore power in case of outages.
Travel Disruptions and Safety Precautions
The storm has caused significant travel disruptions, with flights cancelled and roads closed. The airports in the New York City area have reported cancellations and delays, and residents are advised to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. The city has also issued a special weather statement, warning of low visibility and hazardous road conditions. Residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the storm.
Government Response and Updates
The government has been working to respond to the storm, with Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Hochul providing updates on the city’s preparations and response. The city has also issued a Code Blue to protect homeless individuals from the freezing temperatures. The NYC Department of Sanitation has been working to clear the roads, and the city has suspended alternate side parking to facilitate snow removal operations.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the winter storm that hit the Tri-State Area has brought significant snowfall and icy conditions, causing disruptions to daily life. The government has responded by declaring states of emergency, deploying resources and personnel, and issuing safety precautions. Residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the storm. The city will continue to work to clear the roads and restore power in case of outages, and residents are urged to stay informed and follow updates from the government and weather authorities.
