New York has always been known for its snow-capped winter landscapes, but the state’s first winter forecast is sparking concern among residents and visitors alike. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a cold snap is expected to hit New York in mid-December, with temperatures plummeting as low as -10°F (-23°C) (1).
The city’s snowplows and salt trucks are ready to combat the impending snowstorm, but the real concern is for vulnerable members of society, including the elderly and the homeless. With winter comes a host of health risks, including hypothermia, frostbite, and flu season (2).
Preparing for the Worst: What New York Can Do
So, how can New York prepare for the worst? The city has a snow emergency plan in place, which includes coordinating efforts between city agencies, emergency responders, and private contractors. Street clearing and salt spreading will be a priority, but the city is also looking at innovative ways to manage the snowfall, such as through the use of drones (3).
Risks Associated with the Upcoming Winter Storm
The upcoming winter storm poses several health risks, including hypothermia, frostbite, and flu season. Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), while frostbite occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures (4). Flu season is also a significant concern, as the cold weather can exacerbate respiratory issues and increase the spread of airborne diseases.
New York residents are advised to stock up on warm clothing, such as hats, gloves, and scarves, as well as non-perishable food items and bottled water. Emergency responders will be on high alert during the storm, but it’s also crucial for residents to look out for one another.
Impact on Local Businesses
The upcoming winter storm will undoubtedly have a significant impact on local businesses, particularly those in the retail and food industries. Snowstorms often lead to increased sales of winter clothing, warm beverages, and comfort food, but they also pose a risk to employees who may struggle to get to work (5).
Business owners should develop contingency plans to ensure that their employees can safely travel to and from work, as well as to address any potential supply chain disruptions. The city’s economic impact on local businesses will be closely monitored, but it’s essential for business owners to prioritize the safety and well-being of their employees.
Lessons from Previous Snowstorms
New York has a long history of dealing with snowstorms, but previous incidents have taught valuable lessons on how to prepare and respond to the worst. One of the most significant lessons learned is the importance of coordination between city agencies, emergency responders, and private contractors (6).
The city’s response to the 2010 snowstorm, also known as the blizzard of 2010, was initially criticized for being slow and inadequate. Since then, the city has implemented new measures to improve snow removal services, including the use of technology to track snowfall and predict snow accumulation.
