NYC Faces Deadly Deep Freeze with -25° Wind Chills

Mayor's shelter policy under fire as 17 homeless deaths linked to the extreme cold

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A dangerous arctic blast has gripped the Northeast, bringing record-low temperatures and life-threatening wind chills as low as minus 25 degrees in New York City. The brutal conditions have already been linked to at least 17 deaths among the city's homeless population, with 13 suspected to be caused by hypothermia. The mayor's policy of not proactively clearing homeless encampments is facing criticism as accessibility and awareness of available warming centers remain significant challenges.

Why it matters

This crisis highlights the critical need for effective outreach and shelter access for the city's most vulnerable residents during extreme weather events. The rising death toll raises questions about the balance between respecting individual rights and ensuring public safety in the face of life-threatening conditions.

The details

The current cold snap, which began on January 24th, has brought record-low temperatures and dangerous wind chills to the Northeast. Forecasters predict wind chills as low as minus 25 degrees in New York City, where exposed skin can suffer frostbite in mere minutes. Despite the city opening 64 new hotel shelters and 65 temporary warming centers, many homeless individuals remain hesitant to use these facilities due to past experiences with robbery and violence.

  • The current cold snap began on January 24th.
  • At least 17 deaths among New York City's homeless population have been linked to the extreme cold, with 13 suspected to be caused by hypothermia.

The players

Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City, whose policy of not proactively clearing homeless encampments is facing criticism amid the deadly cold snap.

Eddie

A homeless New Yorker who described the dangers of shelters, citing past experiences with robbery and violence.

Joseph Caraballo

A homeless individual who stated he hadn't been informed about available warming centers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.