#29-25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: AUGUST 1, 2025

HELP NYC RESPOND AND RECOVER: REPORT FLOOD DAMAGE AND SUBMIT 311 SERVICE REQUESTS

 

NEW YORK — New York City Emergency Management is urging all New Yorkers impacted by the July 31, 2025 flash flood event to take two separate but essential steps: submit a damage report and file a 311 service request. These actions will help the city assess the full scope of the storm’s impact and may support a request for federal disaster assistance. The July 31 storm brought intense rainfall across New York City. Oakland Gardens in Queens recorded 6.52 inches of rain, with 6.35 inches in Bayside. Prospect Park in Brooklyn received 2.49 inches. Staten Island saw totals exceeding 2.7 inches. These unofficial localized totals provided by the National Weather Service reflect the severity and variability of flooding citywide.

City agencies are working closely with state officials to assess the extent of damages caused by the July 31 storm. The information collected through damage reports may help support a request for targeted federal assistance, such as Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans. SBA assistance, if approved, can provide low-interest loans to help homeowners, renters, businesses, and certain nonprofits recover from physical damage or economic losses. SBA assistance is dependent on the scope and concentration of reported impacts.

Report Damage to NYC's Damage Reporting Portal

New York City property owners, tenants, business owners, and nonprofit organizations are encouraged to visit reportdamage.nyc.gov to submit a damage report survey. This voluntary form helps the city understand where impacts occurred and how severe they were. Your report may help determine whether to pursue SBA disaster assistance for affected neighborhoods. Submitting a damage report does not replace an insurance claim and does not guarantee financial help. It is used only for assessment and planning. This form also supplements any 311 service request you may submit to report specific needs like sewer backups, fallen trees, mold, or building damage.

Request Service from 311

New Yorkers should also file a 311 service request for specific conditions that require city response. This includes basement flooding, sewer backups, street flooding, water leaks, power outages, structural concerns, fallen trees, blocked catch basins, mold, broken sidewalks, and heat or hot water outages. Requests can be submitted at nyc.gov/311, by calling 311, or using TTY at 212-504-4115 or Video Relay Service at 212-639-9675.

What to Do After a Flood

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. Do not return to a damaged building until it has been inspected and cleared for safety. Watch for signs of structural damage, gas leaks, and live wires. Shut off external gas lines and ventilate flooded areas. Do not turn the power back on until a licensed electrician confirms it is safe. NYC tap water remains safe to drink unless otherwise announced. If your water service was disrupted, run the tap for at least 30 seconds until it runs cold and clear. Flush appliance lines and replace filters. Document all damage with photos and keep receipts for repairs.

If your building sustained serious damage, consult a New York State–licensed engineer or architect before reoccupying. Some work may require permits through the NYC Department of Buildings and must be completed by licensed professionals.

Begin cleanup only when safe. Wear gloves and protective gear. Clean surfaces with soap and water, then disinfect with a bleach solution. Never mix bleach with ammonia. Remove wet porous materials and monitor for mold growth. Fuel spills, deep flooding, or sewage contamination may require professional cleanup.

For more detailed guidance on cleaning up safely, structural risks, and mold prevention, visit NYCEM’s flood recovery page at nyc.gov/floodhelp.

To stay informed on recovery efforts, sign up for Notify NYC at nyc.gov/notifynyc and monitor official city channels. By submitting a damage report, filing a service request, and documenting conditions carefully, New Yorkers can help ensure a coordinated response and support the strongest possible case for additional recovery assistance.

###

MEDIA CONTACT: NYCEM Press Office (718) 422-4888

STAY CONNECTED: @NotifyNYC (emergency notifications), @nycemergencymgt (emergency preparedness info)