NEW YORK CITY (WABC) — Gov. Kathy Hochul warned New Yorkers to prepare for significant rainfall, coastal flooding, strong winds and potential power outages as a powerful storm moves through the region.
“The rain is underway, and while it’s only half an inch or so thus far, mark my words, much more is coming,” Hochul said during a morning briefing.
Long Island is expected to receive 4 to 6 inches of rain over the next several days, while New York City could see 3 to 6 inches, according to the governor.
“The worst flooding is expected to be during this morning’s high tide along the South Shore, and we’re seeing that right now,” Hochul said. “With tonight’s full moon, the tides may even be higher. We expect waves as tall as 20 feet in some areas. Winds will be just as powerful as the waves. Wind gusts exceeding 50, even 60 miles an hour, have already been recorded on Long Island.”
About 22,000 customers statewide were without power as of Saturday morning, and officials expect outages to increase as conditions worsen, Hochul said.
Swift water rescue teams have been deployed to Long Island and stand ready to respond to emergencies, according to the governor.
Air travel disruptions have been limited so far, Hochul said, but travelers should anticipate delays as the storm progresses.
State officials have also prohibited empty tractor-trailers and tandem trucks from using MTA bridges and tunnels because of hazardous wind conditions.
Subway and commuter rail service had been operating normally, Hochul said. Protective storm barriers have been installed at rail yards in Coney Island and Howard Beach to reduce the risk of service disruptions.
Hochul urged residents to avoid beaches, shorelines and other coastal areas as dangerous surf and flooding conditions continue.
“Here’s the bottom line: Stay out of the water,” Hochul said. “Although we just saw a surfer on one of the cameras off the coast of Long Island, stay out of the water. Anyone who goes in or near the water this weekend is literally gambling with their life.”
The governor closed the briefing with a lighter message, encouraging New Yorkers to spend the weekend indoors.
“The New York Times just dropped their list of the 100 best shows of the 21st century,” Hochul said. “Here’s my advice: Pick something on the list, binge on it, stay home.”
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