The National Weather Service issued a freeze warning on Monday afternoon, Nov. 20, which is in effect until Tuesday, Nov. 21, at 8 a.m. with sub-freezing temperatures below 30 degrees expected in The Bronx, New Jersey, Hudson County, Manhattan, Staten Island and southern Nassau counties. According to NWS officials, frost and freeze conditions will kill crops, other sensitive vegetation, and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.

 

New Yorkers are advised to take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes, residents should wrap, drain, or allow the pipes to drip slowly. Those who have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing, officials said.

 

In addition, the City of New York issued a Code Blue warning due to expected frigid conditions overnight. “During that time, outreach teams will be checking in on those experiencing homelessness and getting them shelter,” City officials said. “Shelters will accommodate anyone in need. Call 311 if you see anyone that needs help.”

 

As reported, Oct. 1 marked the official start of the winter heating season, the citywide period through May 31 in which New York City building owners must maintain an indoor temperature of at least 68 degrees between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., when it’s below 55 degrees outside. Click here for more information on what to do if you lose heat or hot water at home.

 

From 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., indoor temperature must be at least 62 degrees, regardless of the temperature outside. Hot water must be kept at a minimum temperature of 120 degrees at the source, year-round.

 

NYCHA residents experiencing issues with heat or hot water should call the Customer Contact Center at (718) 707-7771 or report the issue via the MyNYCHA mobile app or web version. Full details on NYCHA’s preparation for this heating season are available here: https://on.nyc.gov/3SK31Df.

 

In addition, New York City Emergency Management Department issued a travel advisory from Tuesday, Nov. 21, through Wednesday, Nov. 22, in anticipation of wet and windy weather conditions. They said the NWS forecasts one to two inches of rain Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, potentially causing minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas, most notably on Tuesday night.

 

Accompanying the rainfall, wind gusts are expected to reach 30 to 40 mph citywide, with the possibility of up to 45 mph along the southern coastlines overnight on Tuesday, they said, though no thunderstorms are expected. Officials said the weather system is expected to move out by mid-morning Wednesday, yielding to dry conditions with brisk northwest winds and gusts between 20 and 30 mph persisting into Thursday.

 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said, “This week, as we gear our focus towards family, friends, and all of the things we’re grateful for, New Yorkers should also remember to keep an eye on the weather.” He added, “We are preparing for heavy rains and strong winds over the next few days, which means everyone should bundle up and wear extra layers when heading outside. If you are traveling, please leave room for extra travel time and remember to check on friends, relatives, and neighbors. As always, we encourage everyone to sign up for Notify NYC to stay informed on the latest weather information based on where you are located. New Yorkers should take comfort in knowing that their city is looking out for them and is preparing to ensure this weather event causes as few disruptions as possible.”

 

Meanwhile, New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol said, “As we all prepare to spend time with our friends and families this week, we encourage New Yorkers to also prepare for potential heavy rain and strong winds this week.” He added, “We know from experience that weather patterns can change very quickly, and it’s always best to be proactive.  To that end, we’ve begun working with our partners to ensure that the city is prepared and urge New Yorkers to monitor the forecast, especially, during holiday travel.”

 

New Yorkers and visitors are encouraged to sign up for Notify NYC, the city’s free emergency notification system, to stay informed about the latest weather updates and other emergencies. Notify NYC is available in 14 languages, including American Sign Language. To learn more about the Notify NYC program or to sign up, visit NYC.gov/NotifyNYC, call 311, or download the free Notify NYC app for your Android or Apple device.

 

Safety Tips

• Allow for extra travel time. New Yorkers are urged to use public transportation. If traveling, check with your airline or airport on any possible delays or changes.
• If you must drive, drive slowly. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible.
• If you live in a basement apartment in a flood prone area, prepare to move to higher ground.
• Do not drive into flooded streets or enter flooded subway stations.
• Check on friends, relatives, and neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities, access and functional needs, or health conditions. Help them to prepare if needed.
• For more safety tips, visit NYC.gov/SevereWeather.