Bloomberg: 'Power May Be Out for Days'

Those without power in New York City may remain unplugged for as many as three days, said Mayor Michael Bloomberg during a Tuesday morning address regarding storm-related damages.

"The two biggest challenges facing our city going forward are getting our mass transit system up and running and restoring power," Bloomberg said. "The best ways New Yorkers can help get this done quickly is to is to stay off the roads."

After crediting first responders for their great work and heroism in trying to save lives throughout the storm, the mayor noted that Con Edison is projecting days without power for some affected customers. 

"The challenges our city faces are enormous," said Bloomberg. "Make no mistake about it, this was a devastating storm — maybe the worst we have ever experienced."

According to ConEd's stormcenter power tracker, more than 100,000 Queens residents are without power.

Other key points included:

• The 76 shelters opened for the storm are open today and will remain open until those displaced can return home.

• Some subway tunnels have been flooded. As such, public transportation remains closed until further notice. There is no firm timeline for reactivation of bus or train service.

• All major airports are closed. There are no flights leaving or arriving Tuesday.

• The city hopes to have roads free and clear of water by tomorrow.

• Cab drivers, black cabs and livery drivers are all permitted to pick up multiple fares, even if a passenger is already inside the car. The notice will remain in place until MTA service is restored.

For more information on Hurricane Sandy and the recovery effort, follow our storm coverage here.