The Advance Warning System (AWS) disseminates information to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs through their service providers. Please share the important information below with your clients and other agencies or individuals to empower them to make informed decisions.
Dear AWS providers,
NWS has issued a Flood Watch in effect through 6:00 a.m. Tuesday. Multiple rounds of rain and embedded thunderstorms are forecast to produce 2 to 3 inches of rainfall across the city through Tuesday morning, with isolated locations receiving up to 4 inches. Brief rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour are possible in stronger thunderstorms, which could overwhelm drainage systems and lead to flash flooding, especially in low-lying and poor drainage areas.
The highest risk for flooding is expected Monday morning through Monday night as additional rain moves across the region. Localized flash flooding may impact roadways, underpasses, highways, and areas with poor drainage. Briefly strong thunderstorms could also produce gusty winds capable of downing tree limbs and blowing around unsecured outdoor objects.
New Yorkers should allow extra travel time during periods of heavy rain, especially during the Monday evening commute. Secure loose outdoor items such as patio furniture or trash bins before winds increase. If thunder is heard, move indoors and stay away from open areas. Clear debris from nearby storm drains if it is safe to do so to help reduce street flooding.
General Flood Safety Guidance for All Clients:
- Charge phones and keep emergency notifications turned on.
- Enable loud alarms or emergency alert functions on devices.
- Have multiple ways to receive alerts, such as mobile phones, weather radios, and emergency apps.
- Keep a Go Bag ready with ID, medications, chargers, flashlights, waterproof bags for important documents, and other essentials.
- Avoid traveling through flooded streets, subways, or underpasses.
- Stay away from downed power lines and electrical hazards.
- Have flood or water sensors installed and operational to provide early warnings of water entering the home.
- Call 911 immediately if in immediate danger.
Specific Guidance for Basement and Below-Grade Residents:
- Do not sleep in basement or below-grade spaces during a Flash Flood Warning.
- Keep exits clear of clutter and debris at all times. Practice opening all exits in advance.
- Remove cords, electronics, and other hazards from floor areas prone to flooding.
- Ensure flood or water sensors are installed, tested, and working.
- Set alarms to check conditions overnight when flooding is possible.
- Have a predetermined, safe location to relocate to before storms. Consider relocating early if heavy rain or flooding is forecasted, especially overnight.
- Keep phones charged and ringer volume turned up overnight.
How to Enable Emergency Alerts:
- iPhone Users: Go to Settings > Notifications. Scroll all the way to the bottom and ensure Emergency Alerts and Severe Alerts are enabled.
- Android Users: Open the Settings app. Tap Safety & Emergency or Notifications (varies by device). Select Wireless Emergency Alerts and ensure alerts for Extreme and Severe Threats are enabled.
Keep the ringer switch ON and volume up overnight.
Key Reminders for Clients and Caregivers:
- Flash flooding can strike quickly, even overnight. Be ready to act without delay.
- Have multiple alert methods, and ensure phones are loud enough to wake you.
- Keep exits clear and practice emergency escape routes.
- Unplug or elevate floor-level electronics before storms.
- Never stay in basement apartments during a flash flood warning.
- Install and maintain water or flood sensors for early warning.
- Have an emergency plan in case transportation services are disrupted or unavailable. Identify alternative options to access medical care, supplies, or safe shelter.
- Consider relocating early if heavy rain or flooding is expected overnight.
- Avoid all flooded streets and public transit areas.
- Avoid contact with floodwaters. Floodwaters are often contaminated with sewage, chemicals, and debris, making them unsafe.
- Call 911 if in immediate danger.
Thank you for your continued commitment to keeping New Yorkers safe. Please share this information widely with staff and clients.
The Advance Warning System (AWS) alerts organizations who work with people with disabilities and access and functional needs to various types of hazards and emergencies in New York City that may affect people's independence and daily lives. Participating organizations receive public preparedness and emergency information that they can relay to their clients and other similar agencies. If you work for an organization that serves people with disabilities or access and functional needs, you can subscribe for AWS Alerts at the following link: https://www.advancewarningsystemnyc.org/aws
Please do no reply to this e-mail. This mailbox is not monitored. To make changes or receive assistance with your account, please login to the AWS website or contact us through the AWS website. If you think you or someone else may have an emergency, call 911 immediately.