New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said Tuesday that New Yorkers should prepare for the possibility of a “shelter-in-place” order within the next 48 hours. 

The measure would be a step up from the city’s last order shutting down public schools as well as thousands of bars, restaurants, gyms, and casinos. 

It would also be the first of its kind on the East Coast and the most aggressive effort by a single municipality to halt the spread of the coronavirus, but the specifics have not been outlined. 

“All New Yorkers, even though a decision has not been made by the city or the state, I think that all New Yorkers should be prepared right now for the possibility of a shelter-in-place order,” he stated.

So far, just six counties in the San Francisco Bay Area have passed similar orders that starting Tuesday shut down all non-essential businesses and directed individuals to stay inside as much as possible until at least April 7.

The Northern California orders stopped short of prohibiting people from leaving their homes without express permission. Residents can still go out to obtain health care, shop for essentials, and provide assistance to friends and family members. A total of 6.7 million people fall under the orders 

New York City Council Speaker Corey Johnson has pressured de Blasio to follow the Bay Area’s lead. He told WYNC radio on Tuesday that he feels the city is acting too slow in enacting stricter measures. 

The New York Times reported on Monday that there has also been pressure from within de Blasio’s administration to push ahead with more aggressive measures. 

Share:
More In Culture
Animal Care Shelters Reaching Capacity
Animal care shelters in New York City are reaching capacity. Cheddar News spoke to the director of Animal Care Centers of NYC, the largest in the city, who said it's been the worst she's seen in years. The shelter said it's seen a 20% spike in animals.
Top Summer Camp Tips for Parents
With summer officially here, parents are looking for seasonal camps for their children to keep them busy and experience the great outdoors. Cheddar News spoke with two mothers about the best way to prepare as kids set off for camp and activities.
Chef John Fraser Giving Back to Restaurant Workers Through New Initiative
Chef John Fraser, who owns restaurants in New York, California and Florida, is giving back to restaurant workers with a new initiative called "The Industry Table," which provides hospitality employees the chance to eat at restaurants at cost. Chef Fraser explained the program to Cheddar News.
Load More