New Yorkers respond to hospital ship arriving to help deal with coronavirus by gathering in huge crowds to watch it

Shocking photos show dozens of New Yorkers ignoring coronavirus social distancing measures and gathering to watch a hospital ship docking in the city

The USNS Comfort arrived in New York City on Monday morning to help care for non-coronavirus patients after there were 32,308 confirmed cases and 678 deaths, as of Sunday.

Unbelievably, people gathered to mark the occasion by taking photos and watching on while definitely not standing at least two meters apart.

The response on social media to the lack of social distancing was swift, with many calling out the onlookers.

Then even more photos on social media emerged online:

The ship will provide much needed support to the US city most devastated by Covid-19.

It has over 1,000 beds and medical staff, as well as around 100 operating rooms on board.

Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Monday people could face fines of $500 if they break social distancing measures:

They're going to give people every chance to listen. And if anyone doesn't listen, then they deserve a fine at this point.

NYC police have been instructed to close parks, playgrounds and break up any groups not practising social distancing.