How To Protect Yourself In Flood Weather

The New York City Office of Emergency Management is urging residents to exercise caution as the storm passes over the city. In addition to concerns about weakened trees, flood-prone areas – which include portions of Sheepshead Bay – pose unique threats to residents.

Here is a note published by OEM yesterday:

A Flood Watch is in effect citywide. Flooding is likely, particularly in poor drainage and low lying areas, as rain may fall at a rate of one to two inches per hour during the heaviest periods. Additionally, strong winds will pick up tomorrow afternoon, with sustained winds of 25 to 35 miles per hour and gusts of up to 55 miles per hour are possible. A High Wind Watch is in effect citywide from early Thursday morning through late Thursday night.

To prepare for flooding, and to stay safe once it occurs, OEM has put out a list of tips to protect yourself:

• Before or during heavy rain, remove debris from catch basins in your area to allow the water to enter.
• Pick up the leaves from your yard to keep them from clogging streets and catch basins.
• Avoid walking or driving through flooded streets. As few as six inches of moving water can knock a person over. One to two feet of water can carry away a vehicle.
• Flood water can be contaminated. Avoid contact with sewer water, as it poses a serious heath risk.
• Report any downed power lines and avoid standing in flood water, as it can carry electrical current.
• Bring inside loose, lightweight objects, such as patio furniture, garbage cans, garden tools and toys. Anchor objects that will be unsafe to bring inside, like gas grills or propane tanks.