10/25/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/25/2021 12:03
Governor Kathy Hochul today directed state agencies to prepare emergency response assets as a rapidly developing low-pressure system is expected to produce heavy rainfall across most of Long Island, New York City, and the Mid-Hudson Region. Two rounds of heavy rain are expected with the first round beginning Monday night and the second round on Tuesday evening. Rainfall totals of 2-4 inches with locally higher amounts are possible, and rainfall rates may exceed one inch per hour at times. Heavy rainfall combined with already saturated soils will likely cause flooding in various locations, and high winds may cause downed tree limbs and power lines. Heavy rain, wind, and saturated soil could result in some uprooted trees. Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to pay attention to updated weather forecasts and follow any local emergency orders that may be issued.
"This fast-moving weather system is expected to bring a lot of rain to the downstate area through Tuesday night, and New Yorkers should keep a close eye on the forecast so they can be prepared for any inclement weather that may come their way," Governor Hochul said. "I have directed State agencies to prepare emergency response assets and to be ready to deploy them in the event our local governments and communities in those regions are in need of assistance. We stand ready to help our fellow New Yorkers."
A Flash Flood Watch is in effect for Long Island, New York City, and counties within and near the lower Mid-Hudson Region through Tuesday afternoon. A Wind Advisory is also in effect for Suffolk County from Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday morning as wind gusts up to 50 mph could bring down tree limbs and power lines, and saturated ground from heavy rainfall could result in some uprooted trees.
For a complete listing of weather advisories in your area, visit your area's National Weather Service website.
Agency Preparations
Department of Transportation
The State Department of Transportation is prepared to respond with the following assets:
Thruway Authority
The Thruway Authority has 656 operators and supervisors prepared to respond to any wind or flood related issues across the state 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 weather conditions on the Thruway.
Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:
The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to live traffic cameras, real-time traffic information and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway, follow @ThruwayTraffic on Twitter, and visit thruway.ny.gov to see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York State roadways.
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The Division's Office of Emergency Management is closely monitoring weather conditions and its Emergency Operations Center is currently activated. The Division will coordinate any necessary state agency response operations and remain in contact with localities throughout the coming days. Additionally, the Division's Office of Fire Prevention and Control is prepared to coordinate response of State agency water rescue assets, including the deployment of New York State Task Force-2 (NY-TF2), the State's Urban Search and Rescue team. OFPC's NY-TF2 and State agency swift water rescue teams are capable of deploying swift-water rescue technicians operating rescue boats and high-axle vehicles to supplement and support local response capabilities.
Department of Environmental Conservation
DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation 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.
Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Park visitors should check parks.ny.gov or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.
Department of Public Service
New York's utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available to engage in damage assessment, response, repair, and restoration efforts across the State. Department of Public Service staff will track the utilities' work throughout the storm restoration and will ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to the regions impacted the most.
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.
New York Power Authority / Canal Corporation
The New York Power Authority and New York State Canal Corporation are monitoring conditions and preparing all assets. NYPA and Canals representatives are in close contact with state, county, and local emergency personnel. NYPA also stands at the ready to send NYPA transmission and other personnel to assist if needed. The Canal Corporation will update the public as needed through Notice to Mariners alerts. Members of the public may sign-up to receive these notices here.
Metropolitan Transportation Authority
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is taking all necessary precautions to protect its transportation network and deliver safe service. MTA agencies are working closely together, coordinating with local partners to develop plans should service be impacted. The MTA is prepositioning essential backup equipment across commuter railroads, subways, and agency's bridges and tunnels. On the subway, maintenance personnel are inspecting track drains in flood-prone areas and staging track pumps and storm boxes.
The MTA encourages customers to take extra precautions when traveling during heavy rain and strong winds. This includes allowing for extra travel time, taking extra caution when walking on platforms and stairs, watching for slippery conditions, and being mindful of overhead foliage or wires that may have fallen.
Port Authority
The Port Authority is monitoring weather conditions. Speed restrictions may be in effect at the bridges, as well as along roadways to and from the crossings. Passengers through the Port Authority's facilities are encouraged to reach out to carriers and airlines directly for the latest information on delays and cancelations. For the latest information about Port Authority facilities, please check social media, sign up for PA alerts or download one of the PA mobile apps.
Safety Tips
Prepare for severe weather:
Have disaster supplies on hand, including:
If experiencing a power outage, New Yorkers should:
For more safety tips, visit the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Safety Tips web page here.