09/23/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/23/2021 12:29
Governor Kathy Hochul today directed state agencies to prepare emergency response assets as a slow-moving cold front is forecast to bring heavy rainfall to several parts of the State beginning today and continuing through Friday morning. Total rainfall amounts of up to 3 inches with locally higher amounts and some embedded thunderstorms are possible for counties in the Southern Tier, Mid-Hudson, and Capital District, as well as New York City and Long Island. Heavy rainfall may cause flooding of roads and ponding of water in low-lying areas, and some storms may contain damaging winds, which could cause downed trees and power lines. Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to pay attention to updated weather forecasts and follow any local emergency orders that may be issued.
"These storms will deliver heavy rain and high winds and are forecast to impact parts of the state today and overnight, potentially causing flooding and wind damage in some locations," Governor Hochul said. "I have directed State agencies to prepare emergency response assets and be ready to assist local governments if needed. New Yorkers should pay close attention to the weather and always be ready with a plan should an emergency arise."
According to the National Weather Service, the weather system poses two threats in the form of heavy rainfall and potentially severe thunderstorms, some of which could contain high winds. A widespread 1 to 3 inches of rain is possible in several locations by Friday morning. Rain should clear for most areas by Friday as storms exit the state, and any lingering showers during the morning hours will taper off or become less numerous during the day.
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 659 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 forTRANSalert 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.
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 swiftwater rescue teams and 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 will inspect track drains in flood-prone areas and stage 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 for 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:
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 at www.dhses.ny.gov/oem/safety-info/index.cfm.