As a historic winter storm dubbed 'icemageddon' paralysed New York City, Democratic-Socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani took to the streets of Brooklyn to assist residents with snow clearance, though his unconventional shoveling form quickly became the subject of widespread online ridicule.
Record-Breaking Blizzard Buries the Big Apple
The monstrous Winter Storm Fern shattered meteorological records, unleashing nearly 11.5 inches of snow upon New York City in what officials have confirmed as the region's most severe blizzard in almost a decade. The unprecedented snowfall buried boroughs under a thick, powdery blanket, bringing transportation to a standstill and prompting urgent safety warnings from state authorities.
Mayor's Unorthodox Technique Draws Scrutiny
In videos captured by ABC7 and circulated across social platforms, Mayor Mamdani was seen labouring without headwear, bending awkwardly at the waist as he attempted to shift substantial snow mounds. His technique, described by some observers as 'back-breaking', involved folding his body to lift heavy shovelfuls before heaving them aside, directly contradicting official safety guidance issued mere hours earlier.
Digital commentary proved merciless, with one X user remarking, 'You can tell Mamdani has never touched a shovel in his life,' while another quipped, 'Bro looks like he's trying to dig a hole instead of clear the road.' Further criticism focused on his equipment choice, with commentators suggesting he was using an inappropriate shovel for the task and attempting to move excessive snow volumes.
Governor's Safety Warning Takes on Ironic Tone
The mayor's efforts came immediately after Governor Kathy Hochul delivered a stern public safety briefing on Sunday, explicitly warning New Yorkers about proper shoveling methods to prevent serious injury. 'Do not bend over to shovel,' Hochul emphasised to residents. 'You bend down your knees. You want to bend down so you can protect your back. Also, you do not need to have a high amount of snow on the shovel.'
The governor elaborated with grave concern, noting that even her own neighbours had suffered heart attacks from lifting heavy snow. 'It's better to take multiple smaller bites at it, lift smaller amounts of snow, toss it aside,' Hochul explained. 'But do not try to go for the big, massive shovelful of snow because regardless of your health, this could cause a heart attack.'
As Mamdani's viral shoveling footage spread, Hochul appeared to deliver a back-handed compliment, stating, 'Thanks for helping out our neighbours, but put on a hat!'
Mayor Persists Despite Criticism
Undeterred by the governor's chilly remarks or the social media storm, Mayor Mamdani continued his clearance efforts, later greeting New York City Parks Department workers as they struggled to maintain essential services. On social media, the mayor struck a defiant yet community-spirited tone, posting, 'As I have said, there is no task too big or no job too small. Happy to lend a hand and help out New Yorkers. Stay safe!'
Deadly Storm Claims Multiple Lives
The human cost of Winter Storm Fern has proven severe, with the catastrophic weather system claiming at least 25 lives across the United States. In New York City alone, Mayor Mamdani's office confirmed that eight individuals were found dead outdoors between Saturday and Monday morning as temperatures plummeted dangerously low, though the precise causes of these fatalities remain under active investigation.
This devastating blizzard, now classified among America's deadliest winter events, has highlighted both the physical dangers of extreme weather and the intense public scrutiny facing political figures during crisis response efforts.
