New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that 16 homeless individuals died outdoors during an 11-day stretch of sub-freezing temperatures. Preliminary findings indicate hypothermia contributed to 13 of the deaths, with three attributed to overdoses. The incident occurs one month into Mamdani's term, following his pledge to end the removal of homeless encampments.
On February 2, 2026, Mayor Zohran Mamdani addressed the public about a severe cold front gripping New York City, marking the 11th consecutive day of below-freezing weather. He described it as potentially the longest such period in the city's history, with snow turning into ice blocks due to unrelenting low temperatures.
"A severe cold front continues to bear down on our city," Mamdani stated. "As of this morning, 16 of our fellow New Yorkers have passed away outside during this brutal stretch of cold. In 13 of these cases, preliminary findings indicate that hypothermia played a role, and three of these deaths appear to be overdose deaths. We await final results from the medical examiner’s office."
Mamdani, who took office on January 1, 2026, emphasized the tragedy of each loss and expressed sympathy for the families. The city, accustomed to winter weather, did not experience power outages like some other regions during recent storms.
This announcement comes amid Mamdani's policy shift on homelessness. During his campaign, he vowed to end the previous administration's practice under Mayor Eric Adams of systematically removing homeless encampments from sidewalks, a measure in place for the past three years. Mamdani's approach prioritizes voluntary services, framing homelessness primarily as a housing issue rather than one tied to mental illness or addiction.
In response to the cold, the mayor deployed warming buses to aid vulnerable residents. Critics, including the Manhattan Institute, argue that avoiding involuntary removals is unworkable and risky, potentially leaving those unable to seek shelter exposed to elements. Historical context includes former Mayor Rudy Giuliani's 1990s policies, which directed homeless individuals to shelters or faced arrest, significantly reducing street populations.
Additionally, Mamdani faces a $12.6 billion budget gap, which he attributes to his predecessor's mismanagement. Adams countered on social media, criticizing promises like free childcare and transit as costly.
The deaths highlight ongoing debates over balancing compassion with public safety in addressing urban homelessness during harsh winters.
