New York Governor Deploys National Guard as Hurricane Lee Approaches East Coast

NEW YORK – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the deployment of 50 New York National Guard soldiers to begin preparations on Long Island as Hurricane Lee continues to move northwest and strengthen in the Atlantic Ocean.

The deployment comes as state agencies prepare for a hurricane that could cause dangerous high surf, rip currents, coastal flooding and beach erosion along parts of the East Coast later this week as it moves toward the North.

While the storm’s final path is still unclear, Governor Hochul urges New Yorkers to closely monitor the storm’s development this week and ensure they are taking the appropriate steps to keep their homes safe if it ends up hitting. to New York State.

“A major hurricane is currently churning in the Atlantic and we are closely monitoring this storm because it is too early to predict what this potentially dangerous weather system will do,” Governor Hochul said.

“Out of an abundance of caution, I have deployed the National Guard and directed state agencies to prepare emergency response resources and be ready to respond to local requests for assistance. “Coastal New Yorkers should stay alert to the forecast and be prepared to act, if necessary, to stay safe,” he added.

According to the National Hurricane Center, as of Tuesday morning, Lee was located north of Puerto Rico and east of the Bahamas as a Category 3 hurricane with maximum sustained winds near 115 miles per hour.

Leaves uncertainty about the hurricane’s path

The hurricane is moving northwest and is forecast to turn north over the next two days.

Although no direct impact is expected in New York, dangerous waves and rip currents are forecast along the East Coast, including the potential for flooding and beach erosion in high-risk areas along the coasts of New York. York.

State agencies are preparing to respond to potential hazardous conditions in coastal areas, including high surf, flooding, rip currents and beach erosion.

The New York State Department of Transportation is prepared to respond with nearly 3,500 operators and supervisors available across the state.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the New York State DEC Environmental Conservation Police and others are monitoring the situation and will actively patrol areas and infrastructure that could be affected by the severe weather.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is closely monitoring weather conditions and will be ready to take necessary precautions to ensure safe and reliable service.

Monitor weather conditions

The Port Authority is monitoring weather conditions and there may be speed restrictions on bridges.

New York residents should be alert and take precautions by following safety recommendations provided by state and local authorities.

Steps you can take to stay safe include developing a home disaster plan, knowing local evacuation routes, having sufficient supplies of water and non-perishable food, and being prepared to turn off power, heat and fire. water at home in case of emergency.

Governor Hochul and state agencies urge New Yorkers to stay informed about the forecast and take precautions to stay safe during hurricane season.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for NY Alert, the state’s emergency alert service, to receive up-to-date weather information and other emergency alerts via text message or email.

Lee’s exact path and its impact on New York are still unclear, but authorities are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of residents should the storm approach the East Coast.

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