New York Governor Kathy Hochul Makes Urgent Announcement

New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently made an urgent announcement about flooding in Hudson Valley...

Photo byMTA via Wikimedia Commons

Governor Kathy Hochul recently made an urgent announcement about storms causing widespread flooding in New York State, with more than eight inches of rain falling within a 24-hour period in some areas.

“New York is in the middle of a dangerous 48 hours where extreme weather conditions have put much of our state at risk,” Governor Hochul said on Monday. “I have declared a State of Emergency for Orange and Ontario Counties, where flooding last night made significant damage. While the storm has already passed through the southern part of New York, conditions remain dangerous in further north where there are ongoing extreme weather conditions. I urge all New Yorkers to remain vigilant, monitor local forecasts and have an evacuation plan ready if you're in a danger zone.”

“We are working hand in glove with local officials in the Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes to assess damage and address immediate needs," said New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray. "We are also focused on ensuring our response assets are in place in the North Country to respond to the ongoing threat of flash flooding there. New Yorkers in the eastern part of the state must stay alert to conditions today."

Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Emergency Management staff are reportedly on alert and monitoring weather conditions, according to Governor Kathy Hochul. "DEC personnel are actively patrolling areas and infrastructure that could have been impacted by heavy rainfall and local flooding and are working closely with state and local agencies to coordinate flood mitigation equipment including pumps and sandbags in the event mitigation is needed to protect homes, businesses, or infrastructure," per an official press release by the Governor. "All available assets, including swift water rescue teams, are positioned to assist with any ongoing emergency response."

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