16 NYC Deaths Linked to Extreme Cold as Code Blue Response Continues, More Snow Possible

New York City confirms 16 deaths tied to extreme cold weather as Code Blue measures continue. Officials warn hypothermia risks remain with more snow possible

During an event at the David N. Dinkins Municipal Building, Mayor Zohran Mamdani answers questions from the press regarding the 16 people found dead during the week-long frigid weather. -Photo by Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office.

By Staff Reporter 

Manhattan Voice 

February 2, 2026

NEW YORK, NY - New York City officials confirmed Monday that 16 people have died during the recent extreme cold weather, as the city begins to emerge from one of its most dangerous winter stretches in recent history. Mayor Zohran Mamdani said two additional people were found outside in frigid conditions over the weekend, bringing the total number of cold-related deaths to 16.

Preliminary information from city officials indicates that hypothermia played a role in at least 13 of the deaths, while three appear to be overdose-related. Final determinations are pending autopsy results from the city’s medical examiner.

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The deaths were reported during a prolonged period of sub-freezing temperatures that began in mid-January and triggered a citywide Code Blue emergency on January 19. Code Blue protocols are activated when temperatures fall below 32 degrees Fahrenheit and are designed to protect people experiencing homelessness and others at risk.

“This has been a full all-hands-on-deck approach,” Mayor Mamdani said during a weekend briefing, stressing that the city has taken “every possible measure to get New Yorkers inside.”

Despite a gradual easing of the deep freeze, forecasters warn that additional snowfall is possible, and city agencies remain on heightened alert.

Under Code Blue conditions, the city mobilizes multiple agencies to prevent cold-related injuries and deaths. According to the mayor’s office, the response has included:

• Expanded warming shelters across all five boroughs

• Increased shelter capacity and safe haven placements

• Relaxed intake rules at shelters during the emergency

• Faith-based and community outreach partnerships

• Intensified street outreach by the Department of Social Services, homeless outreach workers, and NYPD officers

In some cases, the city took the rare step of involuntary transport. Mamdani said 16 individuals were taken to shelters against their will after being deemed a danger to themselves or others due to the extreme cold.

City officials say the emergency measures have saved lives. Since the start of the Code Blue period, more than 860 people have been placed into shelters or safe havens.

“This could end up being the longest stretch of consecutive below-freezing days in our city’s history,” Mamdani said, underscoring the severity of the weather event.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is still working to determine the exact causes and manners of death for the victims. Officials caution that final autopsy results may take up to a week for each case, and numbers could be updated as investigations continue.

New York City is not alone. Weather-related deaths have also been reported in New Jersey and on Long Island, with dozens more fatalities nationwide attributed to the same massive winter system that swept across large portions of the country.

As temperatures moderate, officials are urging residents to remain vigilant, check on vulnerable neighbors, and call 311 if they see someone in need of shelter.