STATE EP: Severe Weather and Preparedness Update
Severe Weather Threat Across New York State
New York State is facing a heightened risk of severe weather today (Thursday, June 18) and tonight. The National Weather Service warns that strong thunderstorms may produce damaging wind gusts, large hail, frequent lightning, torrential rainfall, and isolated tornadoes.
The greatest threat extends across portions of the Hudson Valley, Capital Region, Mohawk Valley, North Country, Southern Tier, and Central New York, though severe weather is possible elsewhere as conditions evolve.
Heavy rainfall may lead to localized flooding, particularly in areas that experience repeated rounds of storms or have poor drainage. In addition, a high risk of dangerous rip currents is in effect for many ocean-facing beaches on Long Island, and coastal areas may experience localized flooding and hazardous marine conditions.
Looking ahead, forecasters are monitoring the potential for a significant heat event early next week, with temperatures and humidity expected to increase substantially. Additional heat-related advisories or warnings may be issued in the coming days.
Actions for Home Care Providers
Providers are encouraged to review emergency preparedness plans and take steps now to ensure patients and staff are prepared for potential weather-related disruptions.
The Department of Health recommends:
- Access the Health Commerce System (HCS) regularly and ensure contact information is current for active staff members.
- Review agency emergency plans and have caregivers review in-home emergency plans with patients.
- Discuss preparations for power outages with staff and patients.
- Confirm adequate staffing coverage for the duration of weather events.
- Have staff assist patients in checking supplies, medications, food, and water.
- Test communication systems and ensure backup communication methods are functioning.
- Maintain regular contact with field staff, even if there are no significant updates to report.
- Provide ongoing weather and travel updates to staff and patients.
- Respond promptly to any Health Electronic Response Data System (HERDS) surveys.
Weather Awareness and Communication
Monitor weather conditions regularly throughout your service area and keep workers informed of changing conditions. Caregivers should discuss weather alerts and preparedness measures with patients during each visit.
Remember:
- A Weather Watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather and you should be prepared.
- A Weather Warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent and immediate action may be necessary.
- Patients and staff in flood-prone areas should be prepared to evacuate if directed by local authorities or if conditions warrant.
Flood Safety
- Driving during severe thunderstorms can be dangerous.
- Keep both hands on the wheel in case of sudden wind gusts.
- Slow down on wet roads.
- Be prepared for rapidly changing visibility due to heavy rain.
- Never drive through standing or moving water.
- If water begins rising around your vehicle, leave the vehicle immediately and move to higher ground if it is safe to do so.
Do not underestimate floodwaters:
- Six inches of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet.
- Twelve inches of moving water can carry away most vehicles.
- Two feet of moving water can carry away SUVs and trucks.
- It is never safe to drive or walk through floodwaters.
Tornado Safety
The safest place during a tornado is a small interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building, away from windows, doors, and exterior walls.
Additional safety recommendations include:
- Basements and storm shelters provide the best protection.
- If a basement is unavailable, use an interior bathroom, hallway, or closet.
- Mobile homes, trailers, and RVs are not safe during tornadoes; identify a nearby sturdy shelter in advance.
- If you are in a vehicle, do not seek shelter beneath a highway overpass. Move to a sturdy building whenever possible.
- Protect your head and neck with your arms, pillows, blankets, or a mattress.
- Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and work gloves if time permits.
- Do not open windows.
- Never use gasoline, propane, or charcoal-burning devices indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Emergency Alert Resources
We encourage providers, staff, patients, and family caregivers to enroll in emergency notification services:
- NY Alert – New York State’s emergency notification system, providing alerts and critical emergency information.
- Triple Three Triple One – Receive local weather alerts by texting your ZIP code to 333111.
