Commissioner Jessica Tisch, Department of Sanitation: Good afternoon, everyone. We're here for a winter weather briefing concerning New York City tomorrow, Tuesday, February 13th. To start, I welcome Mayor Eric Adams.
Mayor Eric Adams: Thank you. I appreciate everyone being here. I was briefed this morning about the approaching weather, and our team swiftly prepared for it. By 6:40 AM, we received an update, adjusted accordingly, and communicated with the chancellor to initiate remote learning. While we've been fortunate with minimal snowfall, Mother Nature has her plans. Special thanks to Commissioner Tisch and her team for their rapid response.
We anticipate snow starting tonight into tomorrow morning, with forecasts predicting at least five to eight inches. We'll keep New Yorkers informed as the forecast evolves. Expect low visibility, high winds, and potential coastal flooding up to two feet. We take this storm seriously and urge New Yorkers to stay home if possible, utilizing public transportation to ease road congestion.
Our coordination with Governor Hochul's team is in place, and all relevant city agencies are activated. Salt spreaders and plows are ready, thanks to Commissioner Tisch and her team's preparedness. We encourage New Yorkers to stay updated through NotifyNYC.
City services will continue tomorrow, with public schools conducting remote learning. Alternate side parking is canceled, and a Code Blue is in effect for unsheltered New Yorkers. Check on your neighbors and stay warm.
We have an election tomorrow with open poll sites in Queens and the Bronx. Commissioner Tisch?
Commissioner Tisch: Thank you, Mayor Adams. Commissioner Iscol will provide a comprehensive weather briefing shortly, but I'll touch on the key points. Expect rain tonight transitioning to heavy snow tomorrow morning. Our sanitation team is well-prepared, with over 700 salt spreaders and 2,000 plows. Plowing equity ensures every street is covered simultaneously. After plowing, attention shifts to clearing pedestrian infrastructure.
This year, we boast the highest sanitation headcount in decades, invested in fleet upgrades, and employ GPS technology for efficient operations. New Yorkers are urged to stay off the roads, allowing our teams to work faster. While we canceled alternate side parking, property owners must clear sidewalks.
Commissioner Zach Iscol, NYC Emergency Management: Thank you, Commissioner Tisch. Our crews, including police, firefighters, EMS, and sanitation workers, are ready for the forecasted five to eight inches of snow. Travel delays are expected, and a winter weather advisory is in place. We activated our winter weather emergency plan, coordinating with various agencies.
The storm's timeline remains uncertain, with the potential for heavier snow rates. High winds may reduce visibility, and coastal flooding is a concern. Code Blue is in effect, and we urge New Yorkers to stay informed through NotifyNYC. Tomorrow's election sites will be open, but we anticipate disruptions. Now, Chancellor Banks will provide details on school arrangements.
Chancellor David Banks: Schools will shift to remote learning tomorrow, not closed. This synchronous day ensures students engage as if in a regular school day. The decision was prompt to allow ample preparation time for families. This approach aligns with our commitment to minimizing disruptions and catching up on lost education time. The decision aims to balance safety and education. Now, back to you, Commissioner Tisch.
Commissioner Tisch: Thank you, Chancellor Banks. Before we conclude, Mayor Adams, any updates on the shooting incident?
Mayor Adams: Preliminary information suggests a domestic dispute between two brothers. When police responded, one pointed a gun at them, leading to a discharge and the subject being struck in the stomach. The investigation is ongoing.
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