In March 2020, New York City experienced an unprecedented transformation as the COVID-19 pandemic began to take hold. From an aerial perspective, the changes in the cityscape were stark and dramatic. The once-bustling streets of Manhattan, known for their relentless energy and constant activity, suddenly became eerily silent as the city went into lockdown.
March 15, 2020:
As the news of the virus spread, New York City began implementing measures to curb the outbreak. Schools were ordered to close, and large gatherings were banned. From above, the normally crowded Times Square was almost empty, a sight unimaginable just weeks earlier. The roads leading into and out of the city saw significantly reduced traffic as people began to heed the warnings to stay home.
March 20, 2020:
Governor Andrew Cuomo issued the “New York State on PAUSE” executive order, which mandated the closure of all non-essential businesses and required residents to stay indoors except for essential activities. This order effectively brought the city to a standstill. Aerial views showed a deserted Fifth Avenue, with its luxury stores shuttered and no shoppers in sight. Central Park, a haven for joggers and tourists, was noticeably quieter, with only a few people taking solitary walks.
March 23, 2020:
By this time, the city had fully adjusted to the new reality of lockdown. The aerial footage revealed empty highways and bridges, a stark contrast to the usual congestion. Major landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty stood in isolation, highlighting the absence of the usual throngs of tourists. Hospitals were rapidly preparing for an influx of COVID-19 patients, and makeshift medical facilities were being set up in places like Central Park.
March 30, 2020:
The economic impact of the lockdown began to become evident. Times Square, usually illuminated by bright advertisements and bustling with activity, was dimmed and nearly deserted. The financial district, home to Wall Street, was eerily quiet as the stock exchange operated without its usual floor traders. The Javits Center was converted into a temporary hospital, a testament to the severity of the crisis.
April 1, 2020:
As the lockdown continued, the city’s resilience and sense of community began to shine through. Despite the deserted streets, there were signs of hope and solidarity. Aerial views captured the nightly applause for healthcare workers, with residents leaning out of windows and standing on balconies to show their support. The Empire State Building was lit up in red and white, symbolizing the strength and unity of New Yorkers during this challenging time.
Day by Day Changes:
• March 15: Schools closed, Times Square empty.
• March 20: Full lockdown, Fifth Avenue deserted.
• March 23: Empty highways, Central Park quieter.
• March 30: Economic impacts visible, Times Square dimmed.
• April 1: Signs of hope, nightly applause, Empire State Building illuminated.
The aerial footage from these days provides a powerful visual record of the impact of the pandemic on New York City. It captures the emptiness of streets that were once teeming with life, the stillness of landmarks that usually buzz with activity, and the quiet determination of a city facing an unprecedented challenge. This video serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength of New Yorkers, as well as the profound changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information and inquiries, contact WNY@me.com. Follow @dronefanatic on Facebook for more stunning aerial footage.