New York Governor Kathy Hochul has instructed state agencies to prepare for a storm system expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds from Wednesday night through Friday across several regions, including the Southern Tier, Western New York, Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island. Forecasts predict rainfall between 1-2 inches in most areas, with some locations possibly seeing up to 2.5 inches. Officials warn of poor drainage flooding in parts of the Mid-Hudson region, New York City, and Long Island as well as minor to moderate coastal flooding. Wind gusts could reach 40-50 miles per hour on Thursday into Thursday night in New York City and Long Island, potentially affecting travel and causing power outages.
“As this storm makes its way to New York tonight, I urge everyone to prepare for the forecasted high-speed wind gusts, heavy rainfall, flooding and possible power outages,” Governor Hochul said. “New Yorkers should text 333111 to check your local forecast, and stay vigilant as the storm passes.”
Residents are advised to monitor weather updates from official sources such as the National Weather Service at alerts.weather.gov and ensure that emergency alerts are enabled on their mobile phones.
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services reports that its Office of Emergency Management is coordinating with local partners and is ready to deploy resources if needed. The State Watch Center is actively monitoring developments related to the storm.
The Department of Transportation has more than 3,400 operators and supervisors statewide prepared for response operations. Staff are monitoring known problem areas for potential flooding and have checked drains and culverts in advance. Equipment such as large dump trucks, loaders, chippers, excavators, water pumps, bucket trucks, vacuum trucks with sewer jets are available for deployment. For real-time travel information during severe weather events or road closures in New York State motorists can visit https://511ny.org/.
The Thruway Authority has mobilized over 600 operators equipped with dump trucks, loaders, trailers, generators and other tools necessary for managing wind or flood-related incidents along state roadways. Motorists can use the Thruway Authority’s mobile app or visit https://www.thruway.ny.gov/ for live traffic updates.
Utilities throughout New York have about 5,500 workers ready for damage assessment and restoration efforts if there are service disruptions due to the storm.
State Police have been instructed to remain alert with extra patrols available in affected areas; all four-wheel drive vehicles along with specialty vehicles are staged for quick deployment.
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is monitoring forecasts closely alongside partner agencies. DEC reminds municipal officials that debris removal generally does not require permits unless stream banks or beds will be disturbed by equipment; municipalities needing assistance should contact DEC’s Regional Permit Administrators.
Outdoor enthusiasts visiting backcountry areas like the Adirondacks or Catskills are encouraged to check trail conditions before hiking since unpredictable weather may create hazardous situations.
State Park Police are also preparing equipment for response while monitoring park conditions; visitors can find updated information at https://parks.ny.gov/.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is inspecting drains at flood-prone locations across its network while staff stand ready to respond quickly if issues arise; customers can find service updates at https://www.mta.info/.
Port Authority facilities will issue travel alerts via email or social media if severe weather impacts operations; real-time PATH service updates are available through RidePATH mobile app.
Officials recommend residents assemble disaster supplies such as flashlights with batteries, battery-operated radios first aid kits non-perishable food water essential medicines cash credit cards ATM cards among other items.
Safety tips include avoiding flooded roads by turning around rather than driving through them—just two feet of fast-moving water can float a car—and taking precautions during power outages by unplugging appliances but leaving one light on as an indicator when power returns.
For additional safety information residents can visit https://www.dhses.ny.gov/safety.
