Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of Severe Weather Awareness Week in New York State, highlighting the need for New Yorkers to have a plan and stay informed for when severe weather strikes. The annual campaign is a partnership between New York State, the National Weather Service, local and volunteer agencies and private sector organizations to educate New Yorkers about the hazards of severe weather during the spring and summer months. Severe weather, by definition, includes flash flooding, severe thunderstorms, and tornadoes.
“Severe weather is often dangerous and unpredictable, but the steps we collectively take to prepare can minimize the devastating impacts it could have on our daily lives,” Governor Hochul said. “I encourage all New Yorkers to spend time this week learning about the risks we face from severe weather and what we can do to protect ourselves and embolden our efforts to remain disaster-ready.”
Thunderstorms and lightning are unpredictable and can become very dangerous without advance warning. Flooding is the number one weather-related cause of death in the United States with most flood-related deaths occurring from vehicles being swept away by floodwaters. More than 500 tornadoes have been reported in New York State since NOAA began recordkeeping in 1952, with almost each county in the state having experienced at least one tornado in that time.
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “DHSES works year-round with our government partners at the local, state and federal level to enhance severe weather monitoring capabilities, improve training for emergency responders, and educate the public. It’s important for every New Yorker to know the risks and stay informed ahead of potential severe weather this spring and summer.”
Governor Hochul and Commissioner Bray outlined the four steps to emergency preparedness and what New Yorkers can do to keep themselves and their families safe from disaster:
- Develop a plan for you and your family at home, school, work and outdoors. Identify a safe place to take shelter and know what actions to take when a warning is issued. Consider pets when planning for an emergency.
- Build a kit of emergency supplies to last at least 10 days. Include flashlights, weather radio, and extra batteries. You should have one kit each for your home and your vehicle. Plan for any medical needs your family may have. Keep emergency supplies for pets.
Source: ny.gov
Photo Credit: pexels-pixabay
Categories: New York, Government & Policy