Emergency crews across New York City faced a grim reality after a stretch of punishing winter weather coincided with a surge in outdoor deaths, prompting city leaders to scramble to expand shelter capacity and outreach efforts.
According to the New York Post, city officials confirmed Tuesday that at least 10 people were found dead outdoors over the weekend as a snowstorm and sustained below-freezing temperatures settled over the five boroughs.
Authorities cautioned that it remains unclear how many of the deaths were directly caused by exposure to the severe weather.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani addressed the situation during a press conference, describing the conditions as life-threatening and calling for an all-hands-on-deck response.
“The cold is this deadly, we need to meet the moment and leave no stone unturned,” Mamdani said. “And we are mobilizing every resource at our disposal to ensure that New Yorkers are brought indoors during this potentially lethal weather event.”
According to the New York Police Department, three of the deaths occurred in Queens and another three were reported in Brooklyn. Two people were found dead in Manhattan, while one fatality was confirmed in the Bronx.
Investigators are still working to determine the exact causes of death in each case.
In response to the mounting toll, the city moved quickly to adjust its emergency protocols. Mamdani said shelter intake rules were being relaxed to allow people to come inside more quickly, particularly those experiencing homelessness who may not have standard documentation or referrals.
City officials also requested that hospitals limit overnight discharges where possible, a move aimed at reducing the number of vulnerable individuals being released into dangerously cold conditions.
To further expand capacity, the city opened an additional 10 warming shelters and increased street outreach efforts in coordination with nonprofit organizations. Outreach teams were deployed to known encampments and high-risk areas to encourage people to seek shelter.
Department of Social Services Commissioner Molly Wasow Park said during the press conference that several of the individuals who died had previously interacted with the city’s shelter system, underscoring the complexity of the challenge.
The cold snap has been described by officials as “exceptionally dangerous,” with snowpack expected to linger and temperatures forecast to remain below normal for an extended period.
City leaders urged New Yorkers to check on neighbors, report individuals who appear to be in distress, and use emergency resources as the city continues its efforts to prevent further loss of life during the prolonged winter freeze.
