People braved the freezing temperatures around New York City on Tuesday to earn a living.
Despite the sub-zero weather, vendors, dog walkers, and pedicab drivers went about their usual routines. “It’s January in New York; what else do you expect?” said Duane Jackson, 75, as he sold hats, scarves, and gloves in midtown Manhattan. He added, “At least you might think you’re in a warmer place than Buffalo.”
Even with temperatures hovering in the low 20s and wind chills dropping down to the single digits, Jackson pressed on. By that evening, the temperature in Buffalo had plummeted to 10 degrees but felt like -8 with the wind chill.
“I’ve been doing this for about 30 years, and I’ve faced colder days,” Jackson remarked, though he admitted that Tuesday was still challenging. “This just proves that a true street vendor in New York can handle 14 degrees. I’m here trying to make a few bucks and help out those who may have left their gloves or scarves at home.”
Diony Rodriguez, 38, a pedicab driver in Central Park, described how he endures the cold to provide for his three children and manage bills. “People come because they might never get another chance to visit New York. That’s why I’m here today,” he explained.
Rodriguez noted that business was slightly down due to the weather, but he remains optimistic, saying, “New York City always bounces back no matter the conditions.”
Zoe Pearce, 26, a dog walker, mentioned that her five dogs needed to go out despite the cold. “I use hand and foot warmers to stay warm, and honestly, it’s not too bad for me since I haven’t been out here long,” she said.
“I really need the money,” she continued. “As long as there’s no hurricane or blizzard, I can manage to be out here.”
The severe cold posed risks for frostbite and hypothermia, prompting the city’s emergency management agency to step in with safety advice.
Lefteris Amasidis, 21, shared that he heeded this advice while working at his family’s food cart. “Sometimes, even all the warm clothes just aren’t enough,” he confessed. He mentioned that the cold this week had been intense. “But everyone needs money, so I’m here. It’s a family business, and I have to support it,” he noted, referring to their operation that has been running for 46 years.
The weather is expected to warm up a bit midweek, but forecasts indicate that temperatures will dip back into the teens over the weekend, with a chance of snow.
