Home / Disasters and Accidents / NYC Freezes: Cold Snap Claims Dozens of Lives
NYC Freezes: Cold Snap Claims Dozens of Lives
14 Feb
Summary
- Frigid temperatures and wind chills gripped New York City.
- Retired woman found a man dead on her sidewalk in Queens.
- At least 20 people died from exposure to the cold.
A severe cold snap gripped New York City, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 individuals due to exposure. The crisis began shortly before dawn on January 24th, when a retired woman in St. Albans, Queens, discovered a man, identified as 71-year-old Headley Evans, deceased on her sidewalk. The temperature was a chilling 10 degrees Fahrenheit with a wind chill of minus five.
In the subsequent two and a half weeks, the city endured its coldest period in years. Despite efforts by Mayor Zohran Mamdani's administration to encourage people to seek shelter, frozen bodies continued to be found across the city. These tragic discoveries occurred in various locations, including doorways, alleys, and campsites, with fatalities reported daily. The victims ranged in age from 27 to 90 years old, with some experiencing homelessness and others having succumbed to the elements while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
