Transcript: Mayor de Blasio Call into 1010 WINS to Discuss the City's response to Tropical Storm Isaias

August 4, 2020

Susan Richard: Tropical Storm Isaias is pounding the city and sadly is now fatal. We are joined live on 1010 WINS by Mayor de Blasio. Thank you so much for being here.

Mayor Bill de Blasio: Sue, you're welcome. Yeah, it's so sad. We lost someone in Queens now from a falling tree branch. And I just want to let all New Yorkers know, we've got to take this storm seriously. It is a dangerous level of high winds, and should be that way until about five o'clock, so we got a few more hours, but really want to urge everyone to stay indoors and stay safe for these next few hours.

Richard: Yeah, because of the wind and debris flying around, the MTA has shut down above ground subway service. What can you add to that?

Mayor: Well, Verrazzano Bridge is closed, George Washington Bridge is restricted, so a number of types of vehicles are not being let on and they've reduced the speed limit. You know, it's really important for people to realize this is not – unless you absolutely positively have to be outside, stay inside. It's not a good time to be walking outside. It's not a good time to be driving outside, if you can avoid it. And again, some of the storm has passed but we're still going to have these winds for a few more hours. So, just want people to recognize this is really high level winds, very unusual. Give it the respect it deserves.

Richard: What are you hearing about downed trees and power lines? I know Con Ed is now working on a whole bunch of power outages.

Mayor: Yeah, we've got what looks like something along the lines of almost 2,000 downed trees or damaged trees citywide. Obviously, it's going to take a while to really get an accurate count. But it's been a big issue around the city. We have localized power outages because of the downed trees. So, right now all different parts of the city, we have tens of thousands of households affected. So, this is a growing count we're getting but the most important thing right now – we'll be able, Con Ed will be able to get power back but the most important thing is to protect people's lives by keeping people inside.

Richard: Any word on EMS having to respond to any particular situations around the city or police –

Mayor: We've got a lot of calls to 9-1-1 and 3-1-1, certainly. We know call volume is up quite high. So, if people are calling, don't be surprised if there is a delay. We are trying to add more capacity there. So, certainly, our first responders are going to be out wherever the need is. We've got them on high alert obviously. But what I want to do is obviously try and get as many people as possible to realize just hold back, it's only a few more hours – hold back if you can.

Richard: Do we have any more details about the person in Queens who was sadly killed?

Mayor: It's very, very sad. You know, just what a horrible situation when someone's just there and then instantly they're gone. Don't want to give out too much information at this point but just to say that apparently it was a very sudden situation and we'll get more details as we get them in.

Richard: And in a sense, people staying at home – you know we have this stay at home order right – but staying at home is a good thing today. Anything else you want to say to the city?

Mayor: So, just everyone, as per usual, New Yorkers look out for your neighbors. Look out particularly for anyone who, you know, a senior or anyone who might need help in particular. But just tell people, kids – parents watch out for your kids. If they want to go out, this is not a good time to go out. Just everyone, stay tight for a few more hours and we'll be okay.

Richard: Yes, no outdoor dining today. That is –

Mayor: Not at all. Love outdoor dining but we're not doing it today. And secure anything that might be flying around because we've got to protect people from flying objects today.

Richard: All right, Mayor de Blasio, thank you so much for your time.

Mayor: Thank you, Sue.