PRESS RELEASE

#17-16

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ADVISES RESIDENTS IN COASTAL NEIGHBORHOODS OF POTENTIAL FOR COASTAL FLOODING

Widespread minor to moderate coastal flooding expected during Friday evening high tide cycle

May 6, 2016 — With persistent east-northeast winds and high tide due to the new moon, NYC Emergency Management today advised New Yorkers that there is a significant chance of widespread moderate coastal flooding along the southern shores of Queens and Brooklyn during the Friday evening high tide cycle.

"The persistent winds expected raise concerns for minor to moderate coastal flooding," said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Joseph Esposito. "New Yorkers living close to the water can expect some local roadway flooding and should be alert for rising water and take steps to protect their homes and property."

The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Warning from 7PM to 11PM this evening for areas along the southern shores of Queens and Brooklyn.

During a Coastal Flood Warning, widespread moderate flooding is expected, resulting in beach erosion and flooding of vulnerable shore roads and/or properties. Coastal residents in the warned area should be alert for rising water and take appropriate action to protect life and property.

A Coastal Flood Advisory has been issued for Staten Island from 7PM to 11PM.

During a Coastal Flood Advisory, minor flooding of the most vulnerable shore roads and/or properties is possible. Coastal residents should be alert for updates and take action to protect property.

A Coastal Flood Statement has been issued for coastal areas in the Bronx and northern Queens from 8PM to 2AM, and coastal areas in Manhattan from 8PM to 1AM. These areas are also expected to experience minor flooding.

NYC residents living in coastal areas expected to experience minor or moderate coastal flooding should take the following preparedness steps:

• Prepare a Go Bag — a collection of things you would want if you have to leave in a hurry — for every member of your household, including pets. Visit nyc.gov/gobag for a list of important items to include.
• Learn the safest route from your home or workplace to safe, high ground in case you have to evacuate. This should be part of your household emergency plan.
• If you live in a flood-prone area, keep materials such as sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, and lumber on hand to help protect your home.
• Stay informed. Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels, including Notify NYC. You can sign up for Notify NYC by visiting www.nyc.gov/notifynyc or following @NotifyNYC on Twitter.
• When outside, avoid walking and driving through flooded areas. As few as six inches of moving water can knock a person over. Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling. One or two feet of water can carry away a vehicle.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Nancy Silvestri/Omar Bourne (718) 422-4888