NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) — Mayor Eric Adams addressed concerns during an interview with 1010 WINS on Friday, responding to criticism that he did not adequately prepare and inform New Yorkers about the storm that struck the city.
The heavy rain led to widespread disruptions, including delays and flooding throughout New York City's subway systems and roadways on Friday morning.
Adam's office sent out the first warning about the storm, telling people about heavy rains, by email at around 11 p.m. Nearly 12 hours after that and nearly a day after New Yorkers were first warned about possible flash flooding in the city, Mayor Adams's office told people to stay home if they didn’t need to go out.
In response to criticism about the late response to the storm and allegedly inadequate public information, Adams said, “If anyone was caught off guard, then they had to be living under a rock.”
He continued by highlighting the proficiency and professionalism of the city's various agencies, emphasizing that the city's response is not only about the mayor but involves a collective effort of seasoned professionals.
“Let's be clear, I have a great team of professionals who know their jobs. I think it's really a benefit for New Yorkers to see it's not just about the mayor but a group of professionals,” Adams added.
Despite the city’s blockage of transit systems and criticism regarding the administration's communication strategies, Adams remained optimistic, reassuring New Yorkers by saying, “This too will pass.”