State warns that flooding potential is high

NEW YORK--Gov. Andrew Cuomo has urged people across the state to prepare for possible ice jam flooding as warmer temperatures and precipitation moved into the state this week (Feb. 3-8). State agencies are monitoring ice jams and potential ice jam formations statewide, and are deploying assets as needed to assist in preventing and mitigating damage.
Residents of areas that are prone to ice jam flooding should take precautions and monitor local weather forecasts for changing conditions.
"Following a week of severe winter weather, temperatures are now expected to rise dramatically and create the potential for flooding, especially from ice jams," Cuomo said. "State agencies have already been in contact with local governments throughout the state to monitor flood prone areas and assist with any problems that may arise. That said, it is also critical for residents to stay informed, monitor the weather and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families and their homes."
Ice jams occur when pieces of floating ice obstruct a river or stream's flow, causing flooding either downstream or upstream. Water that is held back by ice obstructions can cause flooding upstream, while melting ice jams due to warmer temperatures can cause flooding downstream as well. These "break-up jams" usually cause the most flooding. Flash flooding and ice jams themselves can lead to significant property damage, potentially destroying homes.
Temperatures across the state increased starting Sunday and continued through Tuesday with temperatures climbing to 40 degrees or higher in most places. These temperature increases will likely cause some snowmelt and ice movement on rivers and streams.
Agency Preparations
Department of Environmental Conservation
DEC continues to work with partner agencies and localities throughout the state to respond to flooding and ice jams. The DEC is deploying drones to assist with the assessment of ice jams. The DEC experts are identifying flood-prone areas, including creeks and streams, where snowmelt and rain could cause damaging flooding. The DEC is monitoring stream level forecasts and flood gauges on creeks, streams and rivers to assess flooding risks and respond to potential flooding that would activate any of the 106 Flood Control Projects the DEC maintains and operates across New York State. In addition, the DEC is monitoring wastewater treatment plants throughout the state based on risk conditions and staff are ready to respond to any emergencies caused by flooding.
For additional information about resources for local officials and emergency managers, visit the DEC website https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/115140.html.
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is prepared to respond to requests for assistance with assets from its stockpiles, including:
• Over 730 generators
• Nearly 1,300 pumps
• Over 2 million sandbags
• 20 sandbaggers
• 6,771 feet of Aquadam
Department of Transportation
New York State Department of Transportation staff are on alert and working with state and local partners to respond to any flooding impacts immediately. Department staff are actively monitoring more than a dozen known problem areas and taking action as necessary to mitigate flooding. Fourteen long arm excavators are being located throughout the state to help break up ice jams over the weekend as temperatures rise.
Motorists are reminded to check 511NY before traveling at or by downloading the mobile app. The free service allows users to check road conditions and features a winter travel advisory system with real-time travel reports and a color-coded map indicating which state roads are clear, wet or snow covered. The system provides motorists with a helpful resource to determine if travel is advisable.
Thruway Authority
Thruway Authority staff are actively inspecting drainage systems are monitoring for potential flooding. Staff are prepared to respond to any flooding issues statewide with more than 669 operators and supervisors, small to medium sized excavators, plow/dump trucks, large loaders and a number of portable VMS boards, portable light towers, smaller generators, smaller pumps and equipment hauling trailers, as well as signage and other traffic control devices available for any detours or closures.
The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert emails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway. For real-time updates, motorists can follow @ThruwayTraffic on Twitter or by visiting www.thruway.ny.gov to see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York state roadways.
Safety Tips
Below are flood preparation safety tips:
• Learn the safest route from your home or business to high, safe ground should you have to leave in a hurry.
• Develop and practice a 'family escape' plan and identify a meeting place if family members become separated.
• Make an itemized list--as well as potentially photo and video documentation--of all valuables including furnishings, clothing and other personal property. Keep the list in a safe place.
• Stockpile emergency supplies of canned food, medicine and first aid supplies and drinking water. Store drinking water in clean, closed containers
• Plan what to do with your pets.
• Have a portable radio, flashlights, extra batteries and emergency cooking equipment available.
• Keep your automobile fueled. If electric power is cut off, gasoline stations may not be able to pump fuel for several days. Have a small disaster supply kit in the trunk of your car.
• Find out how many feet your property is above and below possible flood levels. When predicted flood levels are broadcast, you can determine if you may be flooded.
• Keep materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber handy for emergency water-proofing.
• Check on your insurance coverage. Homeowners' insurance policies generally do not cover flood damages. Only flood insurance can protect your home against flood damages. You can purchase flood insurance whether or not you live in a mapped flood zone.
For a complete list of weather terms and preparation ideas before during and after a flood, visit the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services website at www.dhses.ny.gov/oem/safety-info/flood/floodprepare.cfm.