Mayor Mamdani Mobilizes City Government to Prepare New Yorkers for Rainy Holiday Weekend

 

City workers inspecting and clearing stormwater infrastructure in flood-prone areas

 

Specialized emergency assets and response teams are on standby   

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) today issued a weather alert for prolonged rainfall expected to impact New York City over Memorial Day weekend and announced a citywide mobilization to prepare for potential flooding and storm impacts.

The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts rain beginning Saturday morning into early Saturday afternoon, with the heaviest and most persistent rainfall expected from Saturday evening through Sunday morning. Light rain may continue into Sunday afternoon or evening, with additional showers on Memorial Day.

Current forecasts call for 1.5 to 2 inches of rainfall over the weekend, with thunderstorms capable of producing rainfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour for brief periods. Winds are also expected to strengthen Saturday night into Sunday morning, with gusts reaching 25 to 30 mph and stronger gusts possible on elevated structures and exposed areas.

Ahead of the storm, Mayor Mamdani directed City agencies and partners to take proactive steps to reduce flooding risks and ensure a coordinated emergency response if conditions worsen.

NYCEM is leading enhanced coordination with the NWS, City and State agencies, utility providers and private-sector partners. Specialized emergency assets and response teams are on standby and ready for rapid deployment if needed.

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Department of Sanitation (DSNY) and Department of Transportation (DOT) are inspecting and clearing catch basins in flood-prone neighborhoods. DEP is also bringing in additional staff throughout the weekend to support flood preparedness and response operations. The NYPD will monitor traffic for stranded motorists during any street flooding and will have tow trucks on alert in every borough.

“As we prepare for more rain this holiday weekend, our administration is taking every possible step to keep New Yorkers safe,” said Mayor Mamdani. “From clearing catch basins in flood-prone neighborhoods to monitoring downed trees and storm-related hazards, we are mobilizing City government early and aggressively. But we can’t do it alone. We need all New Yorkers to sign up for Notify NYC emergency alerts, make a plan and check on neighbors and loved ones before the storm arrives. Visit nyc.gov/beready to learn more.”

“We recently saw how quickly heavy rainfall can impact parts of the city, and how weather conditions can sometimes change unexpectedly,” said NYCEM Commissioner Christina Farrell. “While widespread significant flooding is not currently forecast, periods of steady rain could still lead to hazardous travel conditions and localized flooding. Many New Yorkers will be traveling and spending time outdoors during Memorial Day weekend, so we encourage residents and visitors to plan ahead, monitor the forecast and sign up for Notify NYC.” 

“Our message this weekend is simple: please stay safe and do not underestimate how quickly flooding can happen,” said DEP Commissioner Lisa F. Garcia. “Conditions can change in minutes, and taking precautions early can save lives. DEP crews will be out all weekend clearing catch basins and monitoring conditions across the city, with additional attention and support to flood-prone neighborhoods. We want every New Yorker to enjoy the holiday weekend and make it home safely.”

New Yorkers should plan now to prepare for potential flooding and severe weather conditions by visiting www.nyc.gov/beready.

Stay informed by signing up for Notify NYC, the City’s free emergency communications program, to receive free emergency alerts by texting NotifyNYC to 692-692, visiting the Notify NYC page, calling 311, following @NotifyNYC or getting the free Notify NYC mobile application for Apple or Android devices.

Monitor real-time flood information at floodnet.nyc.

CONSUMER ALERT: NYS Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection Reminds New Yorkers of Summer Safety Tips Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

Summer Safety Tips are Helpful Guides for Enjoying and Working Outdoors During the Summer Without Compromising Safety

Tips Include Heat safety, Children’s Safety, Grill Safety, Working and Fun safety  

The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is reminding New Yorkers of basic safety tips ahead of Memorial Day weekend. As warm weather approaches, these tips are helpful guides for enjoying or working outdoors during the hot summer season without compromising safety.

“Memorial Day marks the start of the season when New Yorkers begin planning for large gatherings, outdoor activities and fun festivities,” said Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. “The NYS Division of Consumer Protection reminds New Yorkers to follow simple tips for staying safe from outdoor hazards and hot temperatures while enjoying all the summer has to offer.”

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “We all want to make the most of the summer months, enjoying the beautiful weather and New York’s great outdoors. Don’t let an emergency spoil the fun. Whether you’re on the playground, at the pool, or in front of the grill, stay cool and use best practices for safe summer activities to protect yourself.” 

The Division of Consumer Protection offers the following tips to consumers: 

HEAT SAFETY:

• Don’t leave children and pets in hot cars. Heat stroke is a significant danger to children and pets left in cars during the summer months and can cause significant harm or death, even when the outside temperature is as low as 57 degrees. Always check the back seat of your car before locking the doors. Never leave a child or pet in an unattended vehicle in the warm weather. To learn how to prevent hot car deaths, review our consumer alerton the topic.
• Stay informed. Check weather forecasts and sign-up for NY-Alert, the State’s Free Emergency Alert System to stay aware of any heatwaves or severe weather.
• Beat the heat. Minimize, if possible, strenuous activity and exercise, especially during the sun's peak hours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Stay hydrated. 60% of your body weight is made of water, so make sure to drink enough water, adjusting for activity level and heat.
• Stay safe. During periods of extreme heat, keep yourself and your family safe by reviewing heat safety tipsfrom the NYS Department of Health and finding a cooling center near you.

CHILDREN’S SAFETY:

• Ensure playground safety.Check playground equipment for damage and monitor your kids while they are playing.  For information on playground safety, read this  Public Playground Safety Checklist.
• Supervise water activities.Always supervise children near water, including pools, beaches and lakes. You can find American Red Cross swim lessons in your area and safety tips in our water safety consumer alert.
• Respect the rules at amusement parks and fair rides. Obey listed age, height, weight and health restrictions, and follow all directions posted on signs, given by ride operators or announced through recorded messages. These rules were created for everyone’s safety. Read our consumer alertfor more safety tips at amusement parks and fairs.

OUTDOOR SAFETY:

• Wear a helmet. Always wear a helmet when biking or skateboarding and follow traffic rules. For more biking tips, check out our recent consumer alert.
• Grill safely.  Only use grills outside in a well-ventilated area. Never use a grill indoors, in a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, next to your home or under a surface that will burn. For more safe grilling tips, check out our recent consumer alert.
• Prevent fireworks related injuries.The best way to keep your family safe is to leave fireworks to the professionals. Even sparklers are dangerous around children because they can burn hot enough to melt metal. For additional tips and information on New York’s laws on fireworks, read our July 2024 consumer alert.
• Use caution to prevent fires and burn injuries. During summer months, many summer activities such as camping, cookouts, bonfires, and fireworks involve fire. Keep children at least three feet from all heat sources, including campfires, grills, and fire pits.
• Shield yourself from burns. As temperatures rise, applying sunscreen is essential. But when it comes to infants, the best protection is to stay out the sun completely. The Food and Drug Administration and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding sunscreen for babies under 6 months of age.
• Beware the bug bite.
  • No one likes a bug bite. Cover your skin as completely as possible when outside at sunrise, sunset, and early in the evening when mosquitoes and other bugs are most active.
  • Ticks are a high risk in 2026, so take extra precautions. See the NYS Department of Health’s recent information on tick precautions.

Power Tools Safety:

• Make sure you read directions and follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.
• Protect yourself while you work: wear snug clothing and remove jewelry that could get caught in tools.
• Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris.
• When using power tools, never carry them by the cord and keep cords away from heat, oil and sharp edges.
• One power tool that is regularly involved in injuries is a table saw. No matter how expert you are, always use the blade guard for through cuts and use a push stick for small pieces.
• When using battery-powered tools, only use the battery and charger provided by the manufacturer.
• Always keep hands away from moving parts.
• Extreme caution is required when operating a chainsaw. Never cut over your head (kickback can land the chainsaw into your face or shoulder).

Lawn Mower Safety:

• Do not allow children to ride on a mower as a passenger.
• Keep children out of the yard when mowing.
• Before you start mowing, pick up objects like stones, branches and toys, which can become flying objects if you run over them.
• Dress appropriately for the job: wear closed-toe shoes and use eye protection, gloves and hearing protection when needed.

About the New York State Division of Consumer Protection

Follow the New York Department of State on Facebook, X and Instagram and check in every Tuesday for more practical tips that educate and empower New York consumers on a variety of topics. Sign up to receive consumer alerts directly to your email or phone here.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides voluntary mediation between a consumer and a business when a consumer has been unsuccessful at reaching a resolution on their own. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection. The Division can also be reached via X at @NYSConsumer or Facebook.

DEC REMINDS NEW YORKERS TO “GIVE TURTLES A BRAKE”

 

Thousands of Migrating Turtles Are Killed Each Year When Struck by Vehicles

World Turtle Day Celebrated May 23

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton reminded New Yorkers that turtles are nesting in May and June and encouraged motorists to “Give Turtles a Brake.” Turtles are often spotted on or near roads this time of year as they search for sandy areas or loose soils to lay their eggs. In New York State, thousands of turtles are killed each year by unsuspecting drivers while turtles are crossing roads to find nesting areas. 

“Vehicle strikes are a major cause of turtle mortality this time of year, so DEC is asking drivers to be cautious, be on the lookout, and slow down, especially on roads near rivers and marshy areas,” said Commissioner Lefton. “New Yorkers can ‘Give Turtles a Brake’ and do their part to help protect these long-lived species.” 

Drivers who see a turtle on the road are encouraged to slow down to avoid hitting it. If the driver can safely stop and exit the vehicle, motorists should consider moving the turtle to the shoulder on the side of the road in the direction it was facing. Motorists are advised not to pick up or drag turtles by their tails because they can injure the turtle. Most turtles, other than snapping turtles, can be picked up safely by the sides of their shells. It is important to maintain a secure grip as turtles may kick to loosen your hold and dropping them can result in potential injury.  

Snapping turtles require special care when handling—They have long necks that can snap back and inflict a strong bite if held by the sides. Instead, snapping turtles should be picked up by the rear of the shell using both hands or carefully slid onto a mat or blanket and dragged safely across the road. Watch a video of how to help a snapping turtle cross the road. 

DEC reminds people not to take turtles home. All native turtles are protected by law and cannot be kept without a DEC permit for specific purposes and never as pets. Most of the 11 species of land turtles that are native to New York are in decline. It takes many years for a turtle to reach maturity. Losing even one mature female can have a negative impact on a local population. A licensed wildlife rehabilitator may be able to help if an injured turtle is found. Learn more about New York's native turtles on DEC's website. 

DEC conserves turtles through New York State using funding from donations to Return a Gift to Wildlife (a State tax check-off) and federal grants through the State Wildlife Grant Program.  Projects have included nest site creation and protection for Blanding’s turtles, habitat restoration for bog turtles and mud turtles, support for the 24-hour New York State sea turtle stranding hotline, and health monitoring of all native turtle species in New York. 

On May 23, DEC joins in honoring World Turtle Day, an internationally acknowledged day that celebrates all turtles and raises awareness about the threats they face. During this time, DEC actively engages the public through outreach and local events and continues to encourage New Yorker’s “Give Turtles a Brake.” 

Follow @NYSDEC on social media the week of June 8 for more information about New York’s turtles during wild turtle week.

Mayor Mamdani, NYC Tourism, NYNJ Host Committee Announce Programs to Support Small Businesses During 2026 World Cup

 

Five Borough Winners Special’ will offer $26 meals and drinks at hundreds of participating bars, restaurants and food establishments throughout the tournament 

  

Mayor Mamdani also touted ‘Welcome World’ program to encourage people to visit small businesses across all five boroughs for exclusive merch, fan experiences and World Cup match tickets 

  

Initiatives latest part of Mamdani administration’s efforts to help people explore the city’s small businesses, neighborhoods and communities during World Cup celebration 

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ New York New Jersey (NYNJ) Host Committee and NYC Tourism + Conventions today announced new initiatives to support New York City small businesses and encourage New Yorkers and visitors alike to explore neighborhoods across all five boroughs during the World Cup.   

  

The City’s “Five Borough Winners Special” program will offer $26 drink and meal specials at participating bars, restaurants and food establishments across the city, giving New Yorkers and visitors reliably priced dining options throughout the tournament. Nearly 600 businesses across all five boroughs have already signed up to participate in the program, and Mayor Mamdani encouraged any food establishment interested in joining to enroll at nyctourism.com/wc26toolkit.  

  

Mayor Mamdani also highlighted the NYNJ Host Committee’s “Welcome World Rewards” program, which will allow people to check in at participating small businesses, earn points and become eligible for prizes, including exclusive merchandise, fan experiences and the opportunity to attend the World Cup Final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium.  

  

Businesses participating in the Five Borough Winners Special will also be featured on the Welcome World Rewards platform, allowing customers to earn points while supporting participating businesses.   

  

Together with the City’s recently announced ‘NYC Neighborhood Passport,’ events calendar, digital map and borough-wide fan programming, the initiatives are part of the City's broader effort to bring visitors and longtime New Yorkers into neighborhoods across the five boroughs during the tournament.  

  

“In New York City, you do not need an expensive ticket to be part of the World Cup. Our small businesses have some of the best seats in the house,” said Mayor Mamdani. “The Five Borough Winners Special will help working New Yorkers and visitors find a reliably priced place to eat and drink while driving more business into neighborhoods across our city. Whether you are watching the match from a restaurant in Jackson Heights, a bar in the Bronx or a cafe in Central Brooklyn, the World Cup should be something every New Yorker can take part in.”   

  

“As New York City prepares to welcome visitors from around the globe for the World Cup, we want fans to explore and experience as much of our great city as possible,” said Julie Coker, President and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions. “From special promotions and discounts to giveaways and beyond, there are countless ways for business owners to get involved in the festivities and show off their World Cup spirit.”  

  

“The World Cup is an opportunity to bring real economic impact directly into neighborhoods across the region,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ NYNJ Host Committee. “What’s exciting about these programs is that fans can experience them together — grabbing a $26 meal or drink special through the Five Borough Winner Special while also earning points and unlocking rewards through Welcome World. It creates a fun, accessible way for residents and visitors alike to explore local businesses, discover new neighborhoods, and be part of the energy of the tournament.”   

  

Five Borough Winners Special Program  

  

The Five Borough Winners Special — New York City’s official citywide dining program for the World Cup — will offer consistently priced food and drink options at participating restaurants, bars and food establishments throughout the tournament.  

  

Businesses may participate in the program in three ways.  

  

•    $26 Offer: Participating establishments may offer any food or beverage special for $26, including prix-fixe menus, beverage-and-bite pairings, drink specials or other promotions. The deadline to register is July 1, 2026, and the program will run throughout the tournament from June 11 through July 19.  

  

•   Limited-Edition Cup Giveaway: Participating establishments may offer a limited-edition commemorative cup with the purchase of a food or beverage item. Featuring a different design for each borough, the 24-ounce reusable cups are dishwasher safe and intended for cold beverages only. Diners will be encouraged to collect all five cups and share their experiences on social media. Businesses that register before June 11, 2026, will receive two free cases of cups — 96 cups total — before  July 4 while supplies last.  

  

•    Both $26 Offer & Cup Giveaway: Participating establishments may combine both the $26 special and the cup giveaway.   

  

•    Welcome World Rewards: Participating establishments may also be featured on the Welcome World Rewards digital platform to increase visibility, attract new customers and connect with fans throughout the tournament.  

  

Business interested in participating in the “Five Borough Winner Special” can register here. Uber will serve as the presenting sponsor. More information about businesses participation opportunities during the World Cup is available through NYC Tourism’s business tool kit here.  

  

Welcome World Rewards Program  

  

Launching in the coming weeks, the FIFA World Cup NYNJ Host Committee’s “Welcome World Rewards” program will encourage fans to explore neighborhoods and support small businesses ahead of and during the tournament.   

  

Fans will be able to check in at participating businesses, earn points and unlock games, experiences and rewards. Fans who accumulate enough points will become eligible for exclusive merchandise, access to official NYNJ Host Committee fan experiences and the opportunity to attend the World Cup Final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium.  

  

The “Welcome World Rewards” program and “Five Borough Winners Special” are part of the City's broader efforts to help New Yorkers and visitors explore all five boroughs during the World Cup.   

World Cup.   

  

Last week, Mayor Mamdani launched the “NYC Neighborhood Passport,” a citywide initiative encouraging people to visit immigrant communities, cultural institutions, small businesses and community events throughout the tournament while collecting stamps across the city. The administration also plans for a new events calendar and interactive digital map on NYC Tourism’s website, free official NYNJ fan events in every borough and World Cup field days at 50 public schools citywide. 

 

ELURP Application Approved For First City-Owned Site At 351 Powers Avenue In Mott Haven, The Bronx

 

New York City Council has approved the city’s first Expedited Land Use Review Procedure (ELURP) application for 351 Powers Avenue, an eight-story residential building in Mott Haven, The Bronx. The city-owned site will be developed with 84 affordable homes for low-income New Yorkers, including 30 units for formerly homeless residents. The property is located between East 141st Street and East 143rd Street. 

The 17,400-square-foot undeveloped lot currently used as a teacher parking area for the adjacent P.S. 65 and Academic Leadership Charter School building. Plans also include 30 replacement teacher parking spaces, a ground-floor workforce development training center, a community theater, and indoor and outdoor resident recreation areas.

The development will include more than 6,400 square feet of outdoor green space and is part of a pilot program led by the Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice to incorporate the city’s Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines.

The closest subway from 351 Powers Avenue is the 6 train at the Third Avenue–138th Street and Cypress Avenue stations.

This week on Talking Politics

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_x4kKyNyBc

Today on Talking Politics, the latest on Iran, do we have a state budget, is Mayor Mamdani the new Robert Moses using the Cross Bronx Expressway to divide the Bronx Police Precincts and why is he hiding from reporters, then Anthony Rivieccio tries to find out if Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz got shredded in Woodlawn with his guest the founder of the Unity Democratic Club in Riverdale. Live at 12 pm or anytime on YouTube at the link above 

youtube.com Talking Politics

Van Cortlandt Park Alliance - Springtime fun awaits – are you in?

 

The forecast for Wednesday evening is clear and bright. It's the perfect backdrop for a magical night beneath the stars at Springtime Shindig!

 

This is your last chance purchase tickets for Van Cortlandt Park Alliance’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Your presence helps make this special evening possible and directly supports the programs, stewardship, and community initiatives that keep Van Cortlandt Park thriving.

 

Showing up for the Shindig means showing up for the park and for millions of New Yorkers who rely on it as a place to learn, gather, explore, and recharge.

 

Enjoy delicious food and drinks, music, community, and an unforgettable evening celebrating the beauty and impact of Van Cortlandt Park.

 

We hope to celebrate with you on Wednesday, May 27th!

Buy Tickets Here!

Our Contact Information Van Cortlandt Park Alliance 80 Van Cortlandt Park South, Ste. E1 Bronx, NY 10463 718-601-1460 http://vancortlandt.org