Major winter storm shuts down Filipino businesses in New York

NEW YORK – Several Filipino stores did not open in New York City amid the major winter storm that hit the state, causing below-freezing temperatures that also led to the death of five people.

The Philippine Consulate in New York has yet to report if there were Filipinos affected by the winter storm, but said it is closely monitoring the situation.

It assured that it is ready to assist any affected members of the Filipino community.

Several Filipino stores did not open today in Little Manila in Woodside, Queens. Foot traffic in the area was noticeably light.

In New York City, five people were found dead outdoors and were believed to have died due to the extreme cold weather from the major winter storm, which dumped more than 19 inches of snow across the Northeastern US.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the winter storm is not only bringing snow but “temperatures colder than any sustained period this city has experienced in the past eight years.”

“The intense cold can be fatal. Yesterday alone before the snow had even begun to fall at least five New Yorkers died and were found outdoors. I extend my deepest condolences to their families and loved ones. While we do not yet know the exact causes of death, there is no more powerful reminder of the danger of extreme cold and how vulnerable many of our neighbors are,” Mamdani said in a press briefing.

Up to 200 million residents in 34 states across the United States have been affected by the major winter storm.

Many areas have reported power outages caused by strong winds, while states that were severely affected remain under a state of emergency. More than 9,600 flights were also canceled on Sunday due to the monster winter storm. — JMA, GMA Integrated News