Governor Hochul and the National Weather Service Announce Severe Weather Awareness Week in New York State

Governor Kathy Hochul today declared this week as Severe Weather Awareness Week to highlight the seasonal dangers of flooding, tornadoes and thunderstorms during the spring and summer months in New York State.

“As climate change continues to threaten communities across New York State, we are laser focused on educating and preparing New Yorkers for severe weather so they can be better equipped for future storms,” Governor Hochul said. “Severe weather events are becoming more common in New York, and as summer comes around the corner, residents should be prepared for what will come in the future. I encourage all New Yorkers to learn more about severe weather and the hazards created by thunderstorms, flooding and tornadoes so you know how to keep yourself and your loved ones safe in a weather emergency.”

New York State and the National Weather Service’s annual campaign is designed to educate the public on what to expect from specific weather threats, and how New Yorkers can protect themselves and their families during severe weather events such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, or flash flooding. On average, across the United States, 88 people die per year in floods, 41 due to lightning and 68 due to tornadoes

State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “New York State can experience severe weather throughout the year, especially during the spring and summer months, which is why it’s so important New Yorkers know how to manage the threats of severe weather. New Yorkers can tune into our social media this week to learn how to prepare for and respond to severe weather. When dangerous storms strike, it is necessary to have a plan and be ready to take shelter or evacuate, depending on the situation.”

National Weather Service Acting Director Mary Erickson said, "The National Weather Service provides timely and accurate watches and warnings, but they are only effective if people receive them, understand their risk, and can take action to protect themselves. Take the time now to prepare for severe weather by signing up for local weather emergency alerts to ensure you get warnings quickly and making emergency plans with your family."

Below are the four steps to personal preparedness that all New Yorkers should know:

1. Make a Plan: Develop a plan for you and your family at home, school, work and outdoors. Identify a safe place to take shelter – both at and away from home – and know what actions to take when an emergency warning is issued.
2. Prepare a Kit: Emergency supplies for your home and car should last 7-10 days and include a flashlight, a weather radio that receives broadcasts directly from the National Weather Service, and extra batteries. Plan for family medical needs and medicines, and make sure you have emergency supplies for all family pets.
3. Be Informed: Stay tuned to TV and radio stations for Emergency Alert System (EAS) messages and follow any local emergency orders. Receive emergency information via your computer or cell phone by subscribing to NY Alert at alert.ny.gov, a free service that provides critical emergency information.
4. Get Involved: Contact your local emergency management office to learn more about emergency plans and personal preparedness tips. Consider volunteering with organizations such as the American Red Cross, New York Cares, Volunteer NY, or the Salvation Army.

For more information on personal preparedness in advance of severe weather, visit the DHSES Safety and Prevention webpage at dhses.ny.gov/safety.