NYC Mayor Mamdani Provides Update on Blizzard Response

Mayor says city streets are 99.3% plowed, but hazardous conditions remain

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani provided an update on the city's response to the ongoing blizzard, stating that the Department of Sanitation has plowed 99.3% of city streets as of 5:30 a.m. However, the mayor warned that hazardous conditions persist due to heavy snowfall and wind gusts of 40-60 mph, leading to a travel ban until 12 p.m. Mamdani also discussed the city's efforts to provide shelter and services for homeless residents during the storm.

Why it matters

The blizzard is a major weather event that is disrupting daily life in New York City, and the mayor's response and communication with residents is crucial for public safety and preparedness. The city's ability to clear streets and provide shelter for vulnerable populations are key priorities during severe winter storms.

The details

Mayor Mamdani stated that the Department of Sanitation has 2,600 workers on 12-hour shifts clearing the streets, and that residents can track their progress using the PlowNYC tool. The mayor also discussed the city's efforts to provide warming shelters, mobile clinics, and additional beds at existing shelters for homeless individuals, with the ability to involuntarily transport those deemed a danger to themselves or others. Mamdani also noted that food delivery services like DoorDash have paused operations due to the hazardous conditions.

  • As of 5:30 a.m. this morning, the city had plowed 99.3% of streets.
  • The peak of the storm is expected around this moment, but the snow and wind will continue over the next few hours.
  • A travel ban is in place until 12 p.m. today.

The players

Mayor Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City, providing updates on the city's response to the ongoing blizzard.

Department of Sanitation (DSNY)

The city agency responsible for snow removal, with 2,600 workers on 12-hour shifts clearing the streets.

DoorDash

A food delivery service that has paused operations in New York City due to the hazardous weather conditions.

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What they’re saying

“We had a storm, and now we have a blizzard.”

— Mayor Zohran Mamdani (1010 WINS)

“If someone makes the determination - a clinician - that a homeless New Yorker is a danger to themselves or to others, then state law allows us to involuntarily transport them indoors.”

— Mayor Zohran Mamdani (1010 WINS)

What’s next

The travel ban is expected to be lifted at 12 p.m., and the city will continue its snow removal efforts throughout the day as the blizzard continues.

The takeaway

Mayor Mamdani's proactive response and communication with residents during this severe winter storm demonstrates the city's commitment to public safety and preparedness, particularly in ensuring the most vulnerable populations are cared for during hazardous conditions.