Entire State Today Could See Excessive Rainfall and Damaging Winds with Possibility of Power Outages and Flash Flooding
Southern Tier and Western Portions of Mid-Hudson Region Expected to Experience Several Storms with High Winds Bringing the Possible Threat of an Isolated Tornado
New Yorkers Should Monitor Local Forecast, Prepare Households and Vehicles for Severe Weather Impacts, Use Extra Caution When Traveling Especially Near Flooded Roadways and Infrastructure
Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to prepare for severe weather beginning later today as thunderstorms bringing excessive rainfall, damaging winds and the potential for isolated tornadoes are in the forecast across the state. Flash flooding and power outages are possible in vulnerable locations. Parts of the Southern Tier and western portions of the Mid-Hudson Regions are expected to experience the strongest winds, including the possibility of an isolated tornado through this evening. On Tuesday, severe thunderstorms are forecast to impact areas east of I-87 with excessive rainfall, flash flooding, and damaging winds expected for areas mainly north of I-90. Governor Hochul directed her administration to prepare for weather impacts and stand ready to support local officials with emergency response. New Yorkers should monitor local forecasts, prepare their households and vehicles for severe weather, and use extra caution when driving, especially near potentially flooded roadways.
“A strong weather system is expected to impact the state today with heavy rainfall and high winds, especially in the Southern Tier and western portions of the Mid-Hudson Valley, and more severe weather is set to impact additional upstate regions on Tuesday,” Governor Hochul said. “My administration is fully prepared to respond to any weather-related emergencies and assist our local government partners. I urge all New Yorkers to watch the weather forecast closely this week and prepare to act, if necessary, to protect yourself and others.”
For a complete listing of weather alerts and forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov. New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for NY Alert, the State's free emergency alert system, at alert.ny.gov. County-by-county emergency information can be pushed by text or email.
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “More summer storms are on the way today into tomorrow. Keep a close eye on the forecast and prepare now so you can take action in the event of a flash flood emergency or tornado.”
State Agency Preparations
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' State Watch Center is monitoring weather and travel conditions, and coordinating any response needs with local governments. State Fire and State Emergency Management teams are prepared to respond with personnel and resources, in the event of flash flooding.
New York State Department of Transportation
The State Department of Transportation is prepared to respond to the weather event with nearly 3,500 operators and supervisors available statewide. Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:
- 1,393 large dump trucks
- 317 large loaders
- 84 chippers
- 77 wheeled and tracked excavators
- 30 traffic tower platforms
- 21 vacuum trucks with sewer jets
- 14 tree crew bucket trucks
Thruway Authority
Thruway Authority staff is closely monitoring the weather forecast and is proactively inspecting storm drains across the system, ensuring equipment is ready to respond to any wind or flood related issues, as well as checking rock slopes in areas that are expecting heavy rain. The Thruway Authority has 653 operators and supervisors prepared with small to medium sized excavators, plow/dump trucks, large loaders, portable VMS boards, portable light towers, smaller generators, smaller pumps and equipment hauling trailers, as well as signage and other traffic control devices available for any detours or closures. Variable Message Signs and social media are utilized to alert motorists of real time weather conditions on the Thruway.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
New York State DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and weather forecasts, and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be impacted by severe weather. All available assets, including swift water rescue teams, are positioned to assist with any emergency response.
New York State Police
State Police are prepared to deploy additional Troopers, as needed, to affected areas. All State Police specialized vehicles, including four-wheel drive vehicles and Utility Task Vehicles, are staged and ready for immediate response. All Troop emergency power and communications equipment has been tested.
Severe Weather Safety Tips
Disaster Supplies
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
Flash Flooding
- Never attempt to drive on a flooded road. Turn around and go another way.
- If water begins to rise rapidly around you in your car, abandon the vehicle immediately.
- Do not underestimate the power of fast-moving water. Two feet of fast-moving flood water will float your car, and water moving at two miles per hour can sweep cars off a road or bridge.
Lightning
- Follow the 30-30 rule: If the time between when you see a flash of lightning and hear thunder is 30 seconds or less, the lightning is close enough to hit you. Seek shelter immediately. After the last flash of lightning, wait 30 minutes before leaving your shelter.
- Lightning hits the tallest object. If you are above a tree line, quickly get below it and crouch down if you are in an exposed area.
- If you can't get to a shelter, stay away from trees. If there is no shelter, crouch in the open, keeping twice as far away from a tree as it is tall.
Tornado
- If outdoors and a Tornado Warning is issued, seek shelter immediately. If there is no shelter nearby, lie flat in a ditch or low spot with your hands shielding your head.
- If at home or in a small building, go to the basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of the building. Stay away from windows. Closets, bathrooms, and other interior rooms offer the best protection. Get under something sturdy or cover yourself with a mattress.
- If in a school, hospital, or shopping center, go to a pre-designated shelter area. Stay away from large open areas and windows. Do not go outside to your car.
- If in a high-rise building, go to an interior small room or hallway on the lowest floor possible. Do not use elevators — use stairs instead.
For more information on personal preparedness and how to stay safe during severe weather, visit: dhses.gov/safety.
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