Emergency Weather Declaration Issued by Mayor

An “Emergency Weather Declaration” has been issued by Mayor Mike Bloomberg.

The National Weather Service today forecasted a storm that will dump eight to 12 inches on the city, beginning at 7 p.m.

The public is asked not to drive unless absolutely necessary and are encouraged to use public transportation when possible. Cars found blocking the road, the statement reads, will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Alternate side parking rules and meter payment are suspended effective immediately, as are garbage and recycling collections.

Bloomberg had previously come under fire for not declaring a snow emergency during the Dec. 26 Blizzard, when stuck and abandoned vehicles had blocked the way of plows.