Governor Cuomo Directs State Agencies to Prepare Emergency Response Assets as Thunderstorms, High Winds, and Lake Effect Snow is Forecast for New York

 

Wind Gusts Up To 50 MPH Possible in Eastern Capital and Mid-Hudson Regions, as well as on Long Island 

Several Inches of Lake Effect Snow Forecast for Southern Portion of Western NY and Tug Hill Plateau Portion of the North Country

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today directed state agencies to prepare emergency response assets as a weather system is expected to bring thunderstorms, high winds and Lake Effect snow to various parts of the state beginning Monday morning. Specifically, while forecasts are calling for rain and thunderstorms throughout much of the state, the eastern portions of the Capital and Mid-Hudson regions, as well as Long Island have the highest probability of seeing 50+ mph wind gusts. Additionally, the southern portion of Western New York can expect to see between 6 and 12 inches of Lake Effect snow over the next 36 to 48 hours. As the system moves into the state, New Yorkers should monitor local weather forecasts and prepare for possible damaging winds, power outages, and minor flooding conditions.

"With forecasts calling for potentially severe weather in a number of areas throughout the state, I have directed state agencies to not only ensure staff and response assets are ready to support our local partners, but to also remain in contact with utility companies to ensure any power outages are addressed as quickly as possible," Governor Cuomo said. "While the state stands ready to address any issues this storm may cause, I am also urging all New Yorkers to closely follow their local forecasts and take the steps necessary for protecting themselves, their families and their property."

Starting Monday, thunderstorms are possible in the Long Island, Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Capital Regions. New rainfall amounts between a half inch and three-quarters of an inch are possible in the Capital, Central New York, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, North Country, and Southern Tier Regions; between three-quarters and 1 inch in the Western New York Region; and between 1 and 2 inches in the Mid-Hudson, Long Island and New York City Regions. Higher rainfall amounts are possible in areas with thunderstorms. Winds will generally be out of the south east at 15 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph in the North Country, Finger Lakes Regions and Mohawk Valley Region; 45 mph in the New York City and as high was 50 mph in the eastern Capital and Mid-Hudson regions, as well as across Long Island. 

Lake Effect snow is also expected to begin on Monday in the southern portions of Western New York and the Tug Hill Plateau area of the North Country. Throughout the next 36 to 48 hours, the southern portion of Western New York could see anywhere between 6 to 12 inches of snow, while the Tug Hill Plateau is expected to experience between 3 to 7 inches in total.

The National Weather Service has already issued a number of advisories and watches ahead of this system. For a complete listing of weather watches, warnings, advisories and latest forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website.

Agency Preparations

Department of Transportation

The State Department of Transportation will patrol state highways and respond to disruptions during the day Monday and extending into the evening as needed.  The Department has the following assets ready for the upcoming event: 

• 1,591 dump trucks
• 312 large loaders
• 79 chippers
• 61 tractor trailers
• 20 graders
• 15 tree crew bucket trucks

Thruway Authority

The Thruway Authority has 660 operators and supervisors ready to deploy 255 large snowplows, 98 medium snowplows, 11 tow plows and 60 loaders across the state with more than 124,000 tons of road salt on hand. Variable Message Signs, Highway Advisory Radio and social media are utilized to alert motorists of winter weather conditions on the Thruway.  The Thruway Authority is also encouraging motorists to download its mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway here.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts.  Response equipment is being fueled, tested and prepared for storm response use.  Park visitors should check parks.ny.gov or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

Department of Environmental Conservation

DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be impacted by severe weather.  All available assets are positioned to assist with any emergency response.

Department of Public Service

New York's utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available to engage in damage assessment, response and restoration efforts across New York State.  Department of Public Service staff will track the utilities' work throughout the storm event and will ensure the utilities shift the appropriate staffing to the regions anticipated to experience the greatest impact.

State Police

The New York State Police has instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and closely monitor conditions for any problems.  Additional personnel will be deployed to affected areas as needed.  All four-wheel drive vehicles and all specialty vehicles are in-service.

 

Safety Tips

To prepare for potential power outages, New Yorkers should:

• Have a list of emergency numbers readily available.
• At home or at work, keep a battery-operated radio and flashlight on hand, as well as a supply of batteries. Keep an emergency supply of water, medications, and non-perishable foods handy. If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem - check with your physician or pharmacist.
• Make sure you have alternative charging methods for your phone or any device that requires power. Charge cell phones and any battery-powered devices.
• If you have space in your refrigerator or freezer, consider filling plastic containers with water, leaving an inch of space inside each one - this will help keep food cold if the power goes out.
• If you have an electric garage door opener, locate the manual release level and learn how to operate it.
• Keep your car's gas tank at least half-full; gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps. If you use your car to re-charge devices, do not keep the car running in a garage, partially enclosed space, or close to a home - this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Plan to have an alternative cooking source, such as a camp stove or outdoor grill. Follow appropriate safety rules for its use outside the residence.
• If you are considering a generator for your home, consult an electrician or engineer before purchasing and installing.
• Have extra blankets, coats, hats, and gloves on hand to keep warm.
• If you have a computer, back up files and operating systems regularly. Turn off all computers, monitors, and other devices when they are not being used.
• If you rely on anything that is battery-operated or power dependent such as a medical device, determine a back-up plan. For example, if you have a telephone that requires electricity to work, plan for alternate communication such as a standard telephone handset, cell phone, or radio.
• Learn about emergency plans in your area, including the location of the closest cooling and warming shelters, by visiting your state's or local website.

 If experiencing a power outage, New Yorkers should:

• Turn off or disconnect major appliances and other equipment, e.g., computers, in case of a momentary power surge that can damage these devices. Keep one light turned on so you know when power returns. Consider using surge protectors wherever you use electronic equipment.
• Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage and listen to local broadcasts for official information. For a list of utilities in NYS visit the New York State Department of Public Service Check to see if your neighbors have power. Check on people with access or functional needs.
• Use only flashlights for emergency lighting - candles pose the risk of fire.
• Keep refrigerators and freezer doors closed - most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for approximately four (4) hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Do not use a charcoal grill indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat - they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide.
• In cold weather, stay warm by dressing in layers and minimizing time spent outdoors. Be aware of cold stress symptoms (i.e., hypothermia) and seek proper medical attention if symptoms appear.
• In intense heat, consider going to a movie theater, shopping mall or cooling shelter. If you remain at home, move to the lowest level - cool air falls. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• If you are in a tall building, take the stairs and move to the lowest level of the building. If trapped in an elevator, wait for assistance. Do not attempt to force the doors open. Remain patient - there is plenty of air and the interior of the elevator is designed for passenger safety.
• Remember to provide fresh, cool water for your pets.
• Eliminate unnecessary travel, especially by car. Traffic signals will stop working during an outage, creating traffic congestion and dangerous driving conditions. If you must drive during a blackout, remember to obey the 4-way stop rule at intersections with non-functioning traffic signals.
• Remember that equipment such as automated teller machines (ATMs) and elevators may not be working.
• If the power may be out for a prolonged period, plan to go to another location, such as the home of a relative or friend, or a public facility that has heat.

 For a complete list of weather terms and what to do before, during and after a power outage, visit the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services website.

NEW YORK STATE OFFICE FOR THE AGING REMINDS OLDER NEW YORKERS THAT MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT PERIOD ENDS DECEMBER 7

 

Older Adults with Medicare Encouraged to Review Current Health Plan and Prescription Drug Coverage Options before Open Enrollment Period Ends

 The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) reminds older New Yorkers that this year’s Medicare open enrollment period ends December 7, 2020. Medicare health and prescription drug plans can make changes each year to costs, coverage, and what providers and pharmacies are in their networks. During the open enrollment period, people with Medicare can change their health plans and prescription drug coverage for the following year to better meet their needs. Plan changes take effect January 1, 2021.

 

“People’s health and financial status can change over the course of a year—particularly this year, due to COVID-19. Plans also can change what they will cover as well as adjust the cost to the beneficiary,” said NYSOFA Acting Director Greg Olsen. “It’s important for older adults to review their current plans before the end of the open enrollment period to ensure they are getting a plan that is a good value and meets their health care and prescription drug coverage needs. Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP) counselors at each local office for the aging can provide older New Yorkers with the information needed to make an informed choice about a plan that is best for them.”

 

Staying healthy is more critical than ever, particularly for older adults, who remain at greater risk for COVID-19 and other illnesses, such as the flu. Older individuals who have had Medicare Part B (medical insurance) for longer than 12 months are eligible for a yearly wellness visit at low or no cost to develop or update a personalized plan based on their current health and risk factors.

 

With the holiday season underway, understanding the risks and impact of the COVID-19 virus is critical for all New Yorkers to protect themselves and their loved ones.

 

New Yorkers can take the CV19 CheckUp, a free, anonymous, personalized online tool that evaluates an individual’s risks associated with COVID-19 based on their life situation and behaviors and provides recommendations and resources to reduce those risks. Developed by BellAge, Inc., the CV19CheckUp tool helps people be safer, healthier, and ensure their individual needs are met during the pandemic.

 

Several resources are available to help Medicare beneficiaries and their families review and compare their current health and prescription plan coverage with new plan offerings:

• Medicare.gov has comprehensive information for people interested in signing up or changing their plans. The Medicare Plan Finder tool provides a personalized comparison of plan choices.
• Medicare recipients who have limited incomes and resources may qualify for extra help with Medicare prescription drug plan costs. Older adults may apply online or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY users should call 1-800-325-0778 to find out more.)
• 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) offers around-the-clock assistance for those who want to find out more about coverage options. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. Multilingual counseling is available.
• The Medicare & You handbook includes a summary of Medicare benefits, rights, and protections; lists of available health and drug plans; and answers to frequently asked questions about Medicare.
• One-on-one counseling assistance is available from HIICAP counselors at each local office for the aging or through the HIICAP toll free line: 1-800-701-0501.

 

NYSOFA and Medicare also remind older adults to treat their Medicare number as they do their social security number and credit card information. People with Medicare should never give their personal information to anyone arriving at their home uninvited or making unsolicited phone calls selling Medicare-related products or services. If someone calls and asks for a recipient’s Medicare number or other personal information, hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

 

Beneficiaries who believe they are a victim of fraud or identity theft should contact Medicare. More information is available at Help Fight Medicare Fraud.

 

About the New York State Office for the Aging and Health Across All Policies/Age-Friendly New York

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) continuously works to help the state’s 4.6 million older adults be as independent as possible for as long as possible through advocacy, development and delivery of person-centered, consumer-oriented, and cost-effective policies, programs, and services that support and empower older adults and their families, in partnership with the network of public and private organizations that serve them.

 

New York is nationally recognized for being the first age-friendly state in the nation. Using the state’s Prevention Agenda as the overarching framework, in 2017, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo launched a Health Across All Policies approach, where public and private partners work together to positively impact population health by marrying health care, preventive health, and community design, in concert with addressing social determinants of health, to improve the lives of all New Yorkers, young and old.

 

Stay connected—download the NYSOFA mobile app for iOS or Android; visit the NYSOFA Facebook page; follow @NYSAGING on Twitter and NYSAging on Instagram; or visit aging.ny.gov.

 

Facebook Twitter Website Subscribe Stage Garden Rumba is back! Episode #2 Streaming Digitally TONIGHT! Brook Plaza + Sunshine Garden  South Bronx favorite outdoors series STAGE GARDEN RUMBA (now digital) continues to kick off the holidays in Boogie Down style! Live performances by more than 30 theater, music, dance, literary, and social change champs edited into 3 must-see 30-minute programs to be broadcast on Pregones/PRTT social platforms and cable television:   SGR Digital Episode 1 on Monday, November 23 SGR Digital Episode 2 on Monday, November 30 SGR Digital Episode 3 on Monday, December 7 STAGE GARDEN RUMBA —Where Art meets Green in the South Bronx— goes digital for three unseasonably warm Monday nights in November-December! Presented by We Stay/Nos Quedamos in partnership with Pregones/PRTT, SGR is an open invitation for all New Yorkers to experience the cultural riches, green spaces, and vibrant Casitas of the South Bronx! Our 2020 digital series documents four pop-up performances featuring some of our favorite ARTISTS, ACTIVISTS, and COMMUNITY LEADERS. Hyperlocal and universal, their shared message for days of pandemic is one of rootedness, celebration, and collective uplift! E2 Brook Plaza + Sunshine Garden — NOV 30 — Hosted by poet and LGBTQ health and wellness educator Rob Vassilarakis. Featuring immigrant rights activist Karla Mejía; gardener, beekeeper, and unofficial Mayor of 140th Street, Danny Chervoni; feminist poet, writer, activist, and organizer Thahitun Mariam; poet, writer, educator, and artist Peggy Robles-Alvarado; immigrant rights activist and co-owner of La Morada Oaxacan restaurant and community hub, Yajaira Saavedra; trombonist, composer, and educator Hommy Ramos; and food justice advocate and garden steward Violet Montes.  E3 Rincón Criollo / Casita de Chema — DEC 7 — Hosted by spoken word poet, actor, singer-songwriter, and community activist Caridad de La Luz. Featuring poet, scholar, and teacher Afua Ansong; community leader, youth mentor, and founder of El Maestro Sports and Cultural Center, Fernando "Ponce" Laspina; Mazarte Dance Company, led by folklorist and choreographer Martha Zarate; Mariachi Real de México, led by genre maestros Ramón Ponce and Ramón Ponce Jr; and garden steward Desiree Soto, daughter of the late great José "Chema" Soto, South Bronx community icon. Series Streams on Mondays at 7:30 PM Eastern – Here's how to watch: Pregones/PRTT —Facebook Live: www.facebook.com/pregonesprtt —Vimeo: www.vimeo.com/pregonesprtt —YouTube: www.youtube.com/pregonesprtt BronxNET TV —Cable: 69 Optimum —Cable: 2135 FIOS —Web: www.bronxnet.org/watch/Ch4

Representative Adriano Espaillat Statement on the Start of Open Enrollment

 

During COVID, Open Enrollment Matters Today More Than Ever Before!

On HealthCare.gov and CuidadoDeSalud.gov, the Open Enrollment period for 2021 health coverage runs from November 1, 2020 through December 15, 2020

During this COVID pandemic, which continues to worsen, the access of Americans to quality, affordable health coverage is more important than ever. Being uninsured during a pandemic puts people at an enormous risk of losing their health and financial security. Millions of Americans, including constituents of New York's 13th congressional district, who would qualify for significant financial help if they enrolled in an ACA Health Insurance Marketplace, yet are still uninsured, is a major problem. That makes this year’s Open Enrollment period for the Marketplaces particularly critical. I vow to continue my efforts with my Democratic colleagues to stand ready to defend and strengthen pre-existing conditions protections together with every other benefit and protection of the Affordable Care Act. My colleagues and I are prepared to remedy what the Supreme Court is likely to do to undermine the health, financial security and well-being of American families. Americans should not let the ongoing fight in the court stop them from obtaining the health and financial security of having quality, affordable health coverage by enrolling in an ACA Health Insurance Marketplace. Most people using HealthCare.gov will qualify for financial assistance. As a result, last year, 2 in 3 shoppers found plans for $10 per month or less. In addition to HealthCare.gov, Spanish-speaking consumers can use CuidadaoDeSalud.gov. On HealthCare.gov and CuidadoDeSalud.gov, the Open Enrollment period for 2021 health coverage runs from November 1, 2020 through December 15, 2020. Coverage will then begin on January 1, 2021. The urgency of consumers getting the information they need is heightened by the fact that the enrollment period is only six weeks long. We each have a role to play. Get covered today!  Sincerely,  Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) Member of Congress

Democrat Rafael Salamanca Kicks Off Campaign for Bronx Borough President

 

With Borough in Crisis, Salamanca’s Unique Experience Gives Him Edge on Housing, Economic Recovery

 Rafael Salamanca Jr., the City Councilmember for The Bronx’s 17th District and Chairperson of the City Council’s Committee on Land Use, is kicking off his campaign for Bronx Borough President today. In the midst of record levels of homelessness and housing insecurity, Salamanca will bring a strong record of creating truly affordable housing, including building over 7,000 units and securing designated units for the homeless.

“We are in a crisis. All of the growth and improvement we’ve seen under the current Borough President is at risk right now, and we need a proven leader with the experience and skills to tackle these issues,” said Salamanca. “We’re all in pain; I lost my dad in April to COVID-19 like so many others, and on top of that we see the job loss, the housing crisis, the small businesses closing, and our health system on the verge of getting overwhelmed again. Too many Bronx families have needlessly suffered because leaders at all levels — from Washington down to the City-level — have failed us. We need experienced leaders to take on our most critical challenges: the COVID-19 pandemic; a recession; housing and food insecurity; economic inequity; and overdue reforms to our criminal justice system. From the Community Board to the Council, I’ve fought for these issues and I am ready to build our communities back better -- to be more equitable for all.”

A proud product of the South Bronx, Salamanca has had the honor of representing the people of the 17th Council District since 2016. Beyond his leadership on affordable housing, Salamanca has been a stalwart advocate and champion for his constituents, prioritizing access to quality healthcare, employment, education and improved quality of life. Salamanca has allocated over $100 million in critical funding for capital investments and social programming. As Chairperson of the Committee on Land Use, Salamanca is a champion for smart development across the Bronx and New York City that prioritizes the needs of all New Yorkers. He has fought for deeply affordable housing, housing for the homeless, senior housing, and housing for working families, and secured over 7,000 units of 100% affordable housing.

Before being elected to the City Council, Salamanca served as District Manager of Bronx Community Board 2, where he was a member for more than a decade. Salamanca has long been committed to helping his community, serving as President of the 41st Precinct Community Council and on the boards of the Community Healthcare Network and the Hunts Point Economic Development Corporation. In addition to all of his community work and activism, Salamanca spent over a dozen years working in healthcare to expand access for low-income and working families throughout the Bronx.

“The Bronx is tough and resilient, and I know we will get through these challenges and come back stronger. I am proud every day to serve our community and it would be an honor to serve as our next Borough President,” concluded Salamanca.  

VAN NEST NEIGHBORHOOD ALLIANCE (VNNA) – A COVID CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

Christmas Greetings Van Nest,

Hope you and your families enjoyed your Thanksgiving!

VNNA will be having our "COVID Christmas Tree Lighting" next Sunday, December 6th at 5pm in front of the white cross at the Convent Garden, Van Nest Avenue and Unionport Road.

To keep with COVID safety, we will not have carolling but play Christmas music. 

Then we will be visited by our "Safe Santa". Marion, Dee Dee and Santa's Elves will help Santa give out the toys in front of the tree and nativity. It will all be outdoors this year. So dress warmly!

We will also have two Hot Coco stations with cookies manned by volunteers, to keep it all safe and orderly.

Please let your friends and neighbors know to come and join us for a positive and joyful event to bring the community together : - )

Best regards,

Bernadette Ferrara

President, Van Nest Neighborhood Alliance

Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress During COVID-19 Pandemic - NOVEMBER 28, 2020

 

Positive Testing Rate in All Focus Zone Areas is 5.65 Percent; New York State Positivity Outside All Focus Zone Areas is 3.45 Percent     

Statewide Positivity Rate is 3.98 Percent

42 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Yesterday

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

"We are entering a challenging period of sustained COVID-19 spread across this state," Governor Cuomo said. "It's up to you, your neighborhood and your community to slow the spread. Our micro-cluster strategy can target very small areas with restrictions, so the actions each of us take and the actions our neighbors take may seem small, but they make a big difference. New York has one of the nation's lowest infection rates and the nation's highest testing capacity, but it will take the vigilance of New Yorkers to get us through the holidays and through this pandemic."    

The Governor noted that the positive testing rate in all focus areas under the state's Micro-Cluster strategy is 5.65 percent, and outside the focus zone areas is 3.45 percent. Within the focus areas, 36,745 test results were reported yesterday, yielding 2,076 positives. In the remainder of the state, not counting these focus areas, 115,610 test results were reported, yielding 3,987 positives.

Today's data is summarized briefly below:

• Patient Hospitalization - 3,287 (+184)
• Patients Newly Admitted - 433 
• Hospital Counties - 54
• Number ICU - 654 (+18)
• Number ICU with Intubation - 331 (+37)
• Total Discharges - 84,938 (+215)
• Deaths - 42
• Total Deaths - 26,632

MAYOR DE BLASIO AND CHANCELLOR CARRANZA ANNOUNCE PLAN TO RETURN TO IN-PERSON LEARNING IN NEW YORK CITY SCHOOLS

 

Mayor Bill de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza today announced a plan to safely reopen New York City school buildings for in-person instruction with more rigorous testing protocols in place. Students in 3-K and Pre-K programs, as well as those in grade k through grade 5 who have opted for in-person learning will return to school buildings on Monday, December 7, and schools serving students with the most significant disabilities, known as District 75, will return on December 10th. Middle and High Schools will remain remote for the time being. 

“Reopening our buildings is paramount to our city’s recovery from COVID-19,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “That’s why we are doubling down on the safety and health measures that work to make in-person learning a reality for so many of our students.” 

"Getting our kids back in school buildings is one of the single most important things we can do for their wellbeing, and it’s so important that we do it right," said Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza.  "The unparalleled value of in-person learning for students has been evident in the first few months of school, and we will do everything we can to keep our schools safe and keep them open for the duration of this pandemic."

By the time students return to buildings on December 7th, a consent form for testing will be required for all students and staff, and every school will participate in weekly random testing for 20 percent of their in-person population. Parents can fill out the consent form online using a New York City Schools Account (NYCSA) at mystudent.nyc or print and sign the form and bring it to school on their first day back to buildings. 

Our schools are safe, and the most recent positivity rate is 0.28 percent--453 positive cases out of 159,842 tests.  The Situation Room will continue to take fast action following established protocol for tracing COVID cases that are reported from both outside and in-school testing.

Schools will also continue to work towards accommodating students in person five days per week. This includes the approximately 300,000 students who have shown up to in-person learning so far, and the 35,000 students who opted-in earlier this month. Superintendents will work with their schools to adjust schedules as needed with the goal of full-time in-person education in the coming weeks for the students who have selected that option. 

We will continue to closely monitor transmission in schools and throughout the City, and work closely with public health experts and the latest State guidance to keep our schools safe and open for in-person learning. 

Editor's Note:

As a former parent leader all the way up to the Chancellor's Parent Advisory Council this is very troublesome to me. The mayor had set a benchmark of 3% where NYC public schools would close. Today he announces a benchmark of 3.9%, and that public Schools will reopen on December 7th in eight days as COVID-19 cases continue to rise. As a matter of fact, it is expected that inside dinning may be banned once again by the Governor in NYC early in December. 

We could understand this thinking by the mayor if there was a vaccine that has been distributed, but that is not expected to happen until mid 2021. As a former member of the Chancellor' Parent Advisory Council I would tell parents not to send their children to public school to be laboratory experiments of the mayor and chancellor, especially when the public schools had to be closed due to rising COVID-19 indicators above the threshold the mayor and chancellor had previously set by almost one third.