Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday announced the week of March 9 as Flood Safety Awareness Week in New York state.
The annual campaign, conducted in partnership with the National Weather Service, “educates New Yorkers about flood dangers and how to prepare for any emergency involving flooding,” according to a news release from Hochul’s office.
The state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services works with local, state and federal partners year-round to address issues involving flooding, including recovering from past events, training first responders and preparing everyday New Yorkers to understand the risks and know what steps to take when there’s a flood, the release stated.
“New York is no stranger to extreme weather, and as we prepare for the potential for flood conditions starting today, it is important for New Yorkers to monitor their local forecast and take proper precaution to keep themselves and their families safe,” Hochul said. “New York state is home to numerous bodies of water, including coastal areas, rivers, lakes and streams — and Flood Safety Awareness Week is a great opportunity for New Yorkers to understand the dangers of flooding and how to best prepare.”
According to the release, a widespread rain event Wednesday and Thursday could cause localized flooding and elevated river flows, as well as increased potential for ice jams due to warm temperatures resulting in snowmelt and rainfall, the release stated. Warm temperatures, snowmelt, ice on rivers and widespread rainfall could contribute to minor flooding throughout the state through Thursday. Ice jam flooding is possible, especially on creeks and streams where blockages are reported and isolated minor river flooding is possible.
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “New Yorkers are no strangers to the devastating effects of flooding, but preparing in advance can help keep everyone safe. Build an emergency supply kit, develop a flood preparedness plan for your family and follow instructions from emergency officials.”
A National Weather Service statement said, “In New York, flooding can happen any time of year. Thunderstorms, tropical storms and large winter storms can all produce enough rain to send streams over their banks. Rising rivers in the winter and spring can break up ice and lead to ice jam flooding. Everyone living along a stream or river should pay attention to weather and river forecasts and have a plan should rising water threaten their safety or livelihood.”
Hochul and Bray encouraged individuals to sign up for free emergency alerts such as weather warnings, road closures and other emergency information at https://alert.ny.gov/.
Steps New Yorkers can take before and during a flood to stay safe were outlined in the release:
• Know your area’s type of flood risk — visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center.
• Have a flood emergency plan in place for all members of your household including children and pets.
• Check in with neighbors who may need assistance.
• If you live in a flood-prone area, document your belongings and valuables. Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create digital, password-protected copies of important documents, pictures and other items.
• Obtain flood insurance coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program. Homeowner’s policies do not cover flooding.
• Monitor your local weather forecast and follow instructions from local officials.
• If you live in an area that has evacuation zones, know your route and follow instructions from local officials.
• Traveling during a flood can be extremely dangerous. One foot of moving water can sweep a vehicle away. Never walk, swim or drive through flood waters. If you have doubts, remember: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!”
• Consider those with access and functional needs to determine if they are prepared for a flood emergency where they live and work.
For more preparedness information and safety tips from DHSES, visit dhses.ny.gov/safety.