Governor Hochul Cautions New Yorkers of Potential Weather Impacts in New York City, Hudson Valley and Capital Region

Thunderstorms and Heavy Downpours Possible with Flash Flood Watch in Effect for Orange, Rockland and Sullivan Counties

DEC and State Parks Preparing for Potential Shoreline Impacts As Significant Swells from Hurricane Larry Also Expected to Reach East Coast  

 Governor Kathy Hochul today cautioned New Yorkers of potential weather impacts as thunderstorms capable of producing heavy rain are expected in New York City, Hudson Valley and Capital Region areas of the state later this afternoon and continuing through this evening. The main threats from these storms are damaging wind gusts and additional rain in areas that recently experienced flooding, especially urban, low-lying, and poor drainage areas. Brief, isolated tornadoes may also occur as the weather system moves west to east across the state.

Governor Hochul has also directed state agencies to monitor and prepare for coastal impacts as Hurricane Larry, currently spinning east of Bermuda, is expected to cause significant swells along the East Coast of the United States, which could impact New York's shorelines later this week.

"We witnessed the painful devastation left by the remnants of Hurricane Ida and, out of an abundance of caution, we are now keeping a close eye on this week's storms and any potential impacts they may cause across New York," Governor Hochul said. "I am urging New Yorkers to prepare for any inclement weather that may head our way and monitor local forecasts."

Flash flood watches have been issued for Orange, Rockland and Sullivan counties from this afternoon through late tonight. Slow moving thunderstorms could move across portions of the southern Catskills today and have the potential to produce heavy rainfall.  Some locations could see 1 to 2 inches of rain in a short period of time. The combination of saturated ground conditions and heavy rain could lead to rapid runoff and flash flooding. For a complete listing of weather advisories, watches, and warnings in your area, visit the National Weather Service website.

According to the National Hurricane Center, Larry is not expected to have any direct impacts to New York, though given the size of the hurricane, swells will likely cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions on the east coast. Governor Hochul has directed several state agencies to monitor any coastal impacts.

Agency Preparations

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Emergency Operations Center remains activated for the response to the devastating remnants of Hurricane Ida and is closely monitoring weather conditions across the state. The Division will coordinate any necessary response operations and remain in contact with localities throughout the week.

Department of Environmental Conservation 

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is closely tracking the storm for potential impacts on New York's coastline and will conduct post-storm coastal inspections to assess erosion and possible impacts to projects currently underway. In addition, based on the storm's path, DEC will determine the need for closing certain areas to shellfish harvesting. Additional preparations will take place if the path of the storm is expected to change.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation 

State Park lifeguards regularly monitor beaches for hazardous conditions. Swimming is now prohibited due to rough surf at Jones Beach, Robert Moses, and Hither Hills State Parks. In addition, State Parks staff will be fortifying a protective sand 'berm' from the East Bathhouse to the West Bathhouse through the Central Mall, at Jones Beach State Park, as well as preparing sandbags if needed at Jones Beach, Robert Moses and Hither Hills State Parks.

For more information on Hurricane Larry's path and forecasted impacts, visit the National Hurricane Center website here.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority

The MTA is taking all necessary precautions to protect its transportation network against heavy rainfall while continuing to provide safe service for customers. With the storm forecast to affect the lower Hudson Valley, the MTA is focusing attention on Metro-North Railroad and working closely together as always with its other agencies to monitor conditions and coordinate with local partners to develop precautionary plans should service be impacted.

On the subway, maintenance personnel will inspect track drains in flood-prone areas, and check and stage track pumps and storm boxes. The MTA encourages customers to take extra precautions when traveling. This includes allowing for extra travel time, taking extra caution when walking on platforms and stairs, watching for slippery conditions and being mindful for overhead foliage or wires.

Port Authority of New York & New Jersey

The Port Authority is monitoring weather conditions across all its facilities. The agency will be issuing regular travel alerts and updates as necessary. Travelers using Port Authority airports are asked to call ahead to their carriers for flight status in the event of severe weather conditions. For the latest information about all Port Authority facilities, please check social media, sign up for PA alerts or download one of the PA mobile apps.

Severe Weather Safety Tips

Prepare for severe weather:

• Know the county in which you live and the names of nearby cities. Severe weather warnings are issued on a county basis.
• Learn the safest route from your home or business to high, safe ground should you have to leave in a hurry.
• Develop and practice a 'family escape' plan and identify a meeting place if family members become separated.
• Make an itemized list of all valuables including furnishings, clothing and other personal property. Keep the list in a safe place.
• Stockpile emergency supplies of canned food, medicine and first aid supplies and drinking water. Store drinking water in clean, closed containers
• Plan what to do with your pets.
• Have a portable radio, flashlights, extra batteries and emergency cooking equipment available.
• Keep your automobile fueled. If electric power is cut off, gasoline stations may not be able to pump fuel for several days. Have a small disaster supply kit in the trunk of your car.

Have disaster supplies on hand, including: 

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual
• Emergency food and water
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines
• Checkbook, cash, credit cards, ATM cards

For more safety tips, visit the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Safety Tips web page at www.dhses.ny.gov/oem/safety-info/index.cfm.