Albany, NY (WRGB) — Governor Hochul announced a state of emergency for multiple New York counties as heavy rainfall is expected to cause flash flooding from Thursday into Friday. The National Weather Service has upgraded the flash flooding risk to moderate, with up to a 70% chance of flash flooding in some areas.
The state of emergency covers the Bronx, Delaware, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester, and contiguous counties. Flood watches are in effect for New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley through Friday afternoon.
Governor Hochul said,
I am urging all New Yorkers to stay vigilant, stay informed, and use caution as we expect excessive rainfall with the potential for flash flooding. State agencies are on standby for heavy downpours and localized flooding and will be monitoring the situation in real-time to ensure the safety of all New Yorkers in the path of the storm.
Rainfall totals could reach up to five inches in the heaviest bands, with rates potentially exceeding two inches per hour. The Thursday evening commute is expected to be impacted, with some roads possibly becoming impassable. Employers are advised to release employees early to avoid delays.
Water rescue teams are staged in Orange and Ulster counties, and significant rainfall is also anticipated in the Southern Tier and Capital Regions. Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and sign up for real-time weather alerts by texting their county or borough name to 333111.
State agencies, including the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Department of Transportation, and New York State Police, are prepared to respond to the storm’s impacts. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority and Port Authority of New York and New Jersey are also monitoring conditions to maintain safe and reliable services.
New Yorkers are reminded to avoid walking, swimming, or driving through floodwaters and to follow instructions from local officials. For more information on preparedness and safety tips, visit the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services website.
