Odell Declares a State of Emergency in Putnam County

National Guard is activated to assist County Government in recovery efforts

Most traffic lights are out but some are operating on generators supplied by NY State


Putnam County Executive Maryellen Odell today declared a state of emergency in Putnam County in response to the after effects of tropical storm Isaias. In a YouTube interview Miss Odell said that the National Guard has been activated and is responding. They will be utilized to pack, ship and distribute shipments of bottled water and wet and dry ice to the areas affected by the storm. The county has received some wet ice and water but dry ice and additional water is expected to arrive this evening. There are Comfort Stations at the Knights of Columbus
building located at 10 Fair Street in Carmel and the Friendship Center of Philipstown located at 1756 NY-9D in Cold Spring

Approximately 160 utility poles have been knocked down or severely damaged by the storm, along with dozens of trees, which in turn took down power lines, cable TV and internet lines as well. The Verizon cellular service has been “spotty” at best in Southeast since yesterday afternoon according to several reports and other cellular service companies customers have taken to social media to report on their spotty service as well. Over 35,000 residents lost power at the height of the storm and as of 4:30 pm, NYSE&G estimates 32,000 are still without power and some maybe without electricity for several more days. NY state has offered generators to help power traffic lights to ensure motorists safety in the meantime.

Another reason for the declaration of the State of Emergency is that such a declaration is necessary in order to apply for state and federal funds to assist in paying for the costs associated with recovery. The declaration makes it easier for the County to appropriate the necessary supplies, such as gasoline, for the recovery efforts as well.

You can watch the entire County Executive’s Interview on YouTube.

Storm Watch : 8.5.2020 Tropical Storm Isaias Updat...

B
Submitted by Brewster, NY

Become a Local Voice in Your Community!

HamletHub invites you to contribute stories, events, and more to keep your neighbors informed and connected.

Read Next