UN Media Tent Shut Down in New York Due to Severe Weather Warning

A severe weather alert in New York has forced the temporary closure of the media tent at the UN General Assembly. Following a storm warning issued by the National Weather Service on Friday evening due to expected strong winds, the media centre and the 47th St entrance were shut down at 4pm and will remain closed on Saturday, according to a media liaison.

The media liaison also noted that all equipment, outdoor canopies, and tents must be cleared from the area immediately. Despite the closures affecting journalists reporting on the General Assembly, speeches are still expected to proceed as scheduled.

The high-profile event has gathered world leaders from approximately 200 countries and territories in New York. Taking place in September at the start of the US East Coast hurricane season, the gathering frequently contends with storms that disrupt travel and cause flight delays at regional airports.

The UN has continuously raised concerns regarding severe weather and natural disasters driven by climate change. Additionally, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Centre reported in June a greater than 90 percent likelihood of a strong El Nino impacting Northern Hemisphere weather patterns throughout the autumn and winter.