Hordes of shoppers were caught on camera stockpiling supplies after New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio declared a state of emergency.
As seen in pictures that have begun circulating the internet, masses of concerned residents have started stocking up on basic supplies and foods after the NYC mayor proclaimed “the world turned upside down” as a state of emergency was declared.
“Yesterday morning feels like a long time ago. A lot has changed. Last night, the world turned upside down. This is painful. It’s not something we ever want to do but we have to do,” he said.
“This is going to be a long, long battle. We are going to lose some of our fellow New Yorkers. That is inevitable.”
Despite de Blasio’s attempts to stop the people from panicking by explaining that the city isn’t going into a shutdown, the announcement appears to have caused a widespread fright.
Taking to Twitter, the mayor also asked people to stop spreading lies on the internet as he insisted that Manhattan isn’t getting quarantined as some sources claimed.
“NO, there is NO TRUTH to rumors about Manhattan being quarantined. Whoever is spreading this misinformation, PLEASE STOP NOW!” he wrote.
As for the supermarkets affected by the shopping spree, they have started imposing restrictions to ensure the safety of customers and the staff.
While some limited the number of people that can be in their stores at a time, others have set clear distancing lines in an attempt to prevent the spreading of the virus.
“Apparently Trader Joe’s is restricting occupancy due to coronavirus, so the line just to get to the door runs all the way down the block and onto the side street,” someone wrote online.
“The supermarkets are full and I could barely get my hands on some pasta. What happens if people who really need something to eat come across an empty supermarket??” another one questioned.
What are your thoughts on this news? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to SHARE this post with your family and friends and follow us on Facebook for more news and stories!
Replaced!