COVID-19 Impacts Times Square: Twitch Streamer Shows Empty Streets
The coronavirus pandemic, commonly known as COVID-19, has caused cities around the world to come to a standstill. A Twitch streamer known as “Miekii” highlighted this impact by livestreaming his bike trip through Times Square, a typically bustling tourist attraction and commuter hub, but now nearly empty due to the outbreak.
Miekii, a bike messenger who frequently shares his journeys in New York City on livestream, visited Times Square and captured the starkly empty streets in a recent stream. The COVID-19 outbreak has significantly reduced the number of people in the area.
“This is crazy,” Miekii exclaimed. “Man, look at this, there’s no one.”
The coronavirus pandemic has forced many people worldwide to work from home and practice social distancing. Some countries have implemented strict lockdown measures to prevent further spread of the virus. New York City, one of the hardest-hit areas, now experiences deserted streets.
New York has become the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak in the United States, with nearly 8,000 confirmed cases—over ten times higher than the initial count at the beginning of the week.
On March 20, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a statewide lockdown for New York, effective Sunday evening. People are advised to leave their homes only for essential needs like food, medicine, and exercise. Grocery stores, pharmacies, laundromats, and restaurants with take-out or delivery services will remain open.
The COVID-19 outbreak has impacted all regions of the United States, with nearly 30,000 confirmed cases and 377 deaths reported. The virus has also disrupted various industries and led to the cancellation or postponement of major sporting events.
Esports leagues and events have not been spared from the effects of the pandemic. Many have transitioned to online formats, but some are still ongoing. For sports fans experiencing withdrawal, tuning in to esports could provide a worthy alternative.
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