NEW YORK – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo directed state agencies to prepare emergency response resources after the possible storms that would reach the tri-state area and they could bring heavy rain and gusts of wind to the upstate New York area on Monday afternoon.
Governor Cuomo urged New Yorkers to prepare for flash flood conditions and keep an eye on local forecasts for updated conditions. You can see the latest from our Time Authority here.
“Another round of storms is expected to hit the upstate this afternoon with heavy rain and high winds and possible flash floods and isolated power outages, not to mention difficult travel,” Governor Cuomo said. “I have directed state agencies to stand ready to assist local partners if needed, and I encourage New Yorkers to pay close attention to weather forecasts and help ensure that their loved ones and neighbors are prepared and safe.”
The National Weather Service has issued several flash flood advisories, alerts and warnings as of Tuesday morning. New Yorkers can view weather alerts for their area by visiting the National Weather Service website. here.
Preparation of state agencies:
Department of Transportation
The State Department of Transportation is prepared to respond with the following assets:
- 1395 large dump trucks
- 74 wheeled and tracked excavators
- 306 large chargers
- 17 sewer jet vacuum trucks
- 20 motor grader
- 15 tree crew bucket trucks
- 77 chippers
Highway Authority
Thruway Authority has 659 operators and supervisors ready to respond to any wind or flood related issue statewide with small and medium excavators, plow / dump trucks, large loaders, portable VMS boards, portable light towers, smaller generators, smaller pumps and trailer hauling equipment, as well as signaling and other traffic control devices available for detours or closures. Variable message signs, highway warning radius, and social media are used to alert motorists to weather conditions on the highway.
The New York State Police have instructed all officers to remain vigilant and closely monitor conditions for any problems. Additional personnel will be deployed to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles and all specialty vehicles, including off-road utility vehicles, are in service.
Environmental Conservation Department
DEC Environmental Conservation Police officers, rangers, emergency management personnel, and regional personnel are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be affected by severe weather. All available assets, including rapid water rescue teams, are positioned to assist with any emergency response.
Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
The New York State Park Police and park staff are alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts.
Public Service Department
New York Public Services has approximately 5,500 workers available to participate in damage assessment, response, and restoration efforts across the state. Department of Public Services staff will monitor the work of utilities during the storm event and ensure that utilities transfer the appropriate personnel to the regions that are anticipated to be hardest hit.
Metropolitan Transportation Authority
The MTA is taking all necessary precautions to protect its transportation network and continue to provide safe service. MTA agencies are working closely together, coordinating with local partners to develop precautionary plans in the event that service is affected. The MTA is deploying additional personnel and prepositioning essential backup equipment on the agency’s subway, commuter rail, and bridges and tunnels. On the subway, maintenance crews will inspect track drains in flood-prone areas, and check and place track pumps and storm boxes before storms.
The MTA encourages customers to take extra precautions when traveling in heavy rain and winds. This includes allowing extra travel time, being extra cautious when walking on platforms and ladders, keeping an eye out for slippery conditions, and keeping an eye out for overhead foliage or cables.
Port Authority
The Port Authority is monitoring the weather conditions. Speed restrictions may be in effect on bridges, as well as along highways to and from crossings. Passengers through the Port Authority facilities are encouraged to contact carriers and airlines directly for the latest information on delays and cancellations.
New York Power Authority / Canal Corporation
The New York Power Authority and the Canal Corporation are prepared and are currently monitoring forecasts and conditions. The Power Authority stands ready to support power restoration activities if necessary.
– .
