Potential for Moderate to Major Flooding in Broome County
(BINGHAMTON-NY) Overnight weather forecasts have increased the potential for moderate to major flooding to occur in Broome County and surrounding communities. The National Weather Service in Binghamton has forecasted 2-2.5 inches of precipitation to fall in the late evening and early morning hours. Heavy rain, coupled with snow melt, as a result of warmer temperatures, has the capability of producing flash flooding. Residences in low lying areas and those bordering creeks, streams and rivers are to be advised of the increased potential for flooding.
“Residents are to be advised of the increased risk for flash flooding to occur during the evening hours,” stated Brett Chellis, Broome County Director of Emergency Services, Fire Coordinator. “There is a potential for the community to experience a significant amount of rainfall in a brief time period. We will be monitoring conditions throughout the evening and will utilize reverse 911 capabilities to alert the public as needed.”
The Broome County Office of Emergency Services (OES) has partially activated an emergency operations center to monitor conditions and prepare for potential response activities with local partners. The Office of Emergency Services will issue reverse 911 notifications to the community if conditions worsen. Members of the public who do not have land line phones are encouraged to visit www.nyalert.gov to register mobile phone numbers and email accounts to receive emergency alerts.
Those traveling on roadways are to be advised of the potential for flash flooding and should not attempt to drive on roads which are submerged. Motor vehicle operators should use caution and remember the safety mantra “turn around, don’t drown”.
For further weather related information, visit: http://www.erh.noaa.gov/bgm/. Emergency notifications will be posted on www.gobroomecounty.com
NYS DHSES Flooding Preparedness Tips:
Flood or Flash Flood Watch: Indicates that flooding or flash flooding will occur within a few hours of heavy rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or water is being released from an ice jam.
Flood or Flash Flood Warning: Inundation of a normally dry area near a stream or other watercourse, or unusually severe ponding of water has been reported or is imminent.
BE PREPARED!
- Learn the safest route from your home or business to high, safe ground should you have to leave in a hurry.
- 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.
- Have emergency waterproofing supplies on hand, including sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, and lumber.
- Move essential items and furniture to the upper floors of the house. Disconnect electrical appliances that cannot be moved. Do not touch them if you are wet or standing in water.
- If you are told to shut off water, gas, or electrical services before leaving your home, do so.
- Secure your home: lock all doors and windows.
- Leave early to avoid being marooned on flooded roads. Follow recommended routes. Do not sightsee. As you travel, monitor local radio broadcasts for the latest information.
- Watch for washedâout roads, earthslides, broken water or sewer mains, loose or downed electrical wires, and falling or fallen objects.
- Watch for areas where rivers or streams may suddenly rise and flood, such as highway dips, bridges, and low areas.
- Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. Turn around and go another way. Water moving at two miles per hour can sweep cars off a road or bridge.
- If you are in your car and water begins to rise rapidly around you, abandon the vehicle immediately.
- Have a plan in place that includes your pets.
Posted: 3/10/2011 4:17 pm
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Official County Government Site of Broome County, New York.
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