Governor Hochul Urges Caution Ahead of Severe Storms and Flash Flooding

Numerous and Widespread Severe Storms Expected Across the State, Strongest Storms and Heaviest Rain Expected This Afternoon Into Evening

Damaging Winds, Isolated Tornadoes, Hail, and Flash Flooding Possible

Rainfall Rates Could Reach 1 to 2 Inches Per Hour in Heaviest Bands Causing Localized Flash Flooding, Especially In Urban Areas

Risk of Flash Flooding in the Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island Regions with Flood Watches in Effect

New Yorkers Encouraged to Sign Up for Weather and Emergency Alerts by Texting 333111

Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to take caution ahead of widespread storms that can bring severe thunderstorms and heavy rains. Total rainfall is expected to be 1-3 inches statewide, with isolated areas receiving more. Rainfall rates could be heavy with 1-2 inches or more per hour in the heaviest storms causing localized flash flooding, especially in urban or low-lying areas. There is a slight risk for flash flooding across portions of the Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island, and there are already flood watches in effect. The strongest storms and heaviest rain are expected to start this afternoon and has the potential for damaging winds, isolated tornadoes, hail, and flash flooding.

“I am urging all New Yorkers to stay vigilant, stay informed, and use caution as we experience widespread storms this afternoon that can be severe and cause flash flooding,” Governor Hochul said. “State agencies are ready and mobilized to keep New Yorkers safe, and I encourage everyone to stay weather aware and monitor their local forecast.”

Residents are encouraged to monitor their local forecasts, weather watches and warnings. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website.

New Yorkers should ensure that government emergency alerts are enabled on their mobile phones. They should also sign up for real-time weather and emergency alerts that will be texted to their phones by texting their county or borough name to 333111.

Tips to stay safe when there is the potential for flash flooding:

Before and During the Storm

• Stay Informed: Monitor your local weather forecast and follow any warnings that may be broadcast.
• Follow Instructions from Local Officials: If you are advised by emergency officials to take immediate action such as evacuation, do not wait — follow all orders promptly.
• Do Not Walk, Swim or Drive Through Floodwaters: One foot of moving water can sweep a vehicle away. If you have doubts, remember: “Turn Around, Don't Drown!”
• Know your evacuation route and how to get to higher ground.
• Know your area's type of flood risk — visit FEMA's Flood Map Service Center.
• Have a flood emergency plan in place that includes considerations for your children, pets and neighbors.
• Have an emergency go bag ready to grab for you, your family and your pets that includes any medications you may need.
• Check in with elderly neighbors or those who may have mobility issues.
• Do not touch downed power lines.
• Keep your phone charged.
• Keep a small disaster supply kit in the trunk of your car.

After Flood Waters Have Receded

• Wait until an area has been declared safe before entering. Be careful driving, since roads may be damaged and power lines may be down.
• If your home or apartment has been flooded, DO NOT turn on electrical appliances until an electrician has checked the system and appliances.
• Throw out any medicine or food that may have had contact with flood waters.
• Keep your automobile fueled. If electric power is cut off, gasoline stations may not be able to pump fuel for several days.
• Do not touch downed power lines.
• For more preparedness information and safety tips from the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, visit dhses.ny.gov. The National Weather Service website also includes Flood Safety Tips.