Governor Hochul is urging New Yorkers to prepare for severe weather impacts across New York State Monday through Tuesday

Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to prepare for severe weather beginning later today, as thunderstorms are expected to bring heavy rain, damaging winds and the possibility of isolated tornadoes across the state. Flash floods and power outages are likely in vulnerable areas. Parts of the Southern Tier and western portions of the mid-Hudson areas are expected to see the strongest winds, including the potential for an isolated tornado during this evening. Tuesday’s severe thunderstorms are expected to impact areas east of I-87 with heavy rain, flash flooding and damaging winds expected mainly in areas north of I-90. Governor Hochul directed her administration to prepare for weather impacts and stand ready to support local officials in emergency response. New Yorkers should monitor local forecasts, prepare their families and vehicles for severe weather, and use extra caution when driving, especially near potentially flooded roads.

“A strong weather system is expected to impact the state today with heavy rain and high winds, especially in the Southern Tier and western portions of the Mid-Hudson Valley, and more severe weather is scheduled to impact additional upstate areas on Tuesday.” Governor Hochul said. “My administration stands fully prepared to respond to any weather-related emergencies and assist our local government partners. I urge all New Yorkers to closely monitor the weather forecast this week and be prepared to take action, if necessary, to protect yourself and others.

For a complete list 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 NY Alert alert. ny.gov. County-by-county emergency information can be sent via text or email.

New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said: “More summer storms are on the way today into tomorrow. Watch the forecast closely and prepare now so you can take action in the event of flash flooding or a hurricane.

State agency preparations

New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The State Monitoring Center of the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services monitors weather and travel conditions, and coordinates any response needs with local governments. State fire and 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 approximately 3,500 operators and supervisors available statewide. Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

• 1,393 large dump trucks
• 317 large loaders
• 84 slides
• 77 wheeled and crawler excavators
• 30 traffic tower platforms
• 21 dump trucks equipped with sewage jets
• 14 bucket truck for tree crew

Roads Authority

Thruway Authority staff closely monitor the weather forecast and proactively check storm drains across the system, ensuring equipment is ready to respond to any wind or flooding issues, as well as checking rock slopes in areas where heavy rain is expected. The Thruway Authority includes 653 operators and supervisors equipped with small to medium-sized excavators, plow/dump trucks, large loaders, portable VMS panels, portable light towers, smaller generators, smaller pumps and equipment transport trailers, as well as signage and other traffic control devices. Available for any transfers or closings. Variable message signs and social media are used to alert motorists of real-time weather conditions on the highway.

The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its app Mobile app Which is available for free download on iPhone And Android Devices. The application provides motorists with direct access to live traffic cameras, Real time traffic Information Assistance with navigation while on the move. Motorists can also sign up Transport alert Follow emails providing the latest traffic conditions along the highway @ThruwayTraffic On X (officially Twitter)and visit thruway.ny.gov To see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York State roads.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

New York State DEC Conservation Police officers, forest rangers, emergency management personnel, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and weather forecasts, actively patrolling areas and infrastructure potentially impacted by severe weather. All available assets, including rapid water rescue teams, are in a position to assist in any emergency response.

With the potential for heavy rain, hikers in the Adirondacks are advised to temporarily avoid all elevated trails and trails crossing rivers and streams. Hikers are encouraged to check out Adirondack Backcountry Information Web Pages For updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures, and general recreational information for the Adirondacks, especially in the wake of recent flooding.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Affairs Preservation

new York State Park Police and park staff are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. A must-visit for park visitors parks.ny.govCheck for free New York State Parks Explorer Mobile app or contact your local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

Public Service Department

Utilities in New York has approximately 5,500 workers available to participate in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts throughout New York State for this event. Agency staff will track the facilities’ work throughout the event and ensure facilities move the appropriate staff to areas experiencing the greatest impact.

New York State Police

The State Police is ready to deploy additional forces, as needed, in the affected areas. All State Police specialized vehicles, including ATVs and utility duty vehicles, are ready for immediate response. All of the forces’ emergency power and communications equipment has been tested.

Tips for safety from severe weather

Disaster supplies

Keep disaster supplies on hand, including:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery operated radio and extra batteries
• First aid and guide
• Food and water in emergency situations
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines
• Check book, cash, credit cards and ATM cards

Flash floods

• Never attempt to drive on a flooded road. He turns around and goes another way.
• If the water begins to rise quickly around you in your car, abandon the car immediately.
• Don’t underestimate the power of fast-moving water. Two feet of fast-moving flood water will float onto 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 seeing a flash of lightning and hearing thunder is 30 seconds or less, the lightning is close enough to strike you. Seek shelter immediately. After the last flash of lightning, wait 30 minutes before leaving your shelter.
• Lightning strikes the longest object. If you are above a tree line, get under it quickly and crouch down if you are in an exposed area.
• If you can’t get to shelter, stay out of trees. If there is no shelter, sit in the open, about twice as tall as the tree.

tornado

• If you are outdoors and a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter immediately. If there is no shelter nearby, lie flat in a trench or low place with your hands on your head.
• If you are at home or in a small building, go to the basement or an interior room on the bottom floor of the building. Stay away from windows. Closets, bathrooms, and other interior rooms provide the best protection. Sit under something sturdy or cover yourself with a mattress.
• If you are in a school, hospital or shopping centre, go to a pre-designated shelter area. Stay away from large open areas and windows. Don’t go out to your car.
• If you’re in a high-rise building, move to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible. Don’t use elevators – use the stairs instead.

For more information about personal preparedness and how to stay safe during severe weather, visit: dhses.gov/safety.