A bitterly cold start to the week is enveloping the New York region, and local authorities are warning residents to keep time outside to a minimum.
Real-feel temperatures are expected to be in the teens Monday due to an arctic chill gripping the metro area, according to the National Weather Service. Highs won’t get above freezing and gusts could get up to 28 mph.
That means Monday will be the coldest day since February, New York City Emergency Management said. Officials are urging people to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid exposure to the cold.
“Dress in layers and cover all exposed skin. Watch for frostbite, which appears as numbness or pale or waxy skin,” Emergency Management tweeted. “Watch for hypothermia, which appears as shivering, confusion, or drowsiness. Call 911 if you see these symptoms.”
The agency is reminding New Yorkers that landlords are required to keep their buildings at at least 68 degrees during the day when it’s below 55 degrees outside, and at least 62 degrees at night regardless of the outside temperature, during heating season, which goes through May. Hot water must be kept at at least 120 degrees year round. People can report heat and hot water issues to 311 if they aren’t resolved in a timely fashion.
New Yorkers concerned about homeless residents at risk of hypothermia outdoors can call 311 for assistance from city outreach teams, who work to connect people to shelter. For emergency situations, officials say to call 911.
The MTA said it’s preparing for the extreme cold by monitoring for weather-related issues on subways, buses and commuter rails. The agency said it’s instructed bus drivers to reduce speed, avoid sudden braking and clear ice and frost from buses before driving. Commuters can check the MTA’s app or website for the latest transit service information.
Tuesday’s forecast calls for a high of about 34 degrees in Central Park, with wind chills between 20 and 30 degrees, NWS said. Gusts up to 22 mph are possible Tuesday night. On Wednesday, the high is set to rise to about 45 degrees, and rain currently looks likely.
