While scattered storms continue in our area, Tropical Storm Elsa continues its move in our direction with the center of storm tracking well south of our region. The biggest impact from Elsa will be rain with wind gusts in the 25 - 35 MPH range. The possibility of isolated thunderstorms remains in our area until 9 PM this evening.
Overview
The latest update from the National Weather Service shows Putnam County remains in a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 9 PM with the chance of isolated strong thunderstorms developing. The region will transition to the arrival of the remnants of Tropical Storm Elsa which is forecast to arrive around midnight. Elsa will bring periods of heavy rain with wind gusts ranging from 25 – 35 MPH mostly occurring overnight. Rainfall amounts will exceed 0.15 inches per hour with the heaviest rainfall between 3 AM – 10 AM Friday. There is also a possibility of isolated tornadoes.
County Response
Putnam County Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
The EOC is currently at Level 4. The Office of Emergency Management staff will continue to monitor conditions and provide public information.
Traffic and Road Conditions
Putnam County Sheriff’s Office reports that we are seeing normal traffic patterns.
County Facilities
All County facilities are on their appropriate normal working schedule.
Utilities
NYSEG – Storm Response Team is monitoring weather forecast, planning and crews and equipment are standing by.
Central Hudson – Monitoring the weather, crews are assembled and prepared to respond.
Bureau of Emergency Services
Putnam County 9-1-1 is fully staffed. The public is reminded that 9-1-1 should only be used for EMERGENCY requests for Police, Fire or EMS.
Fire & EMS
All Putnam County Fire & EMS agencies have been briefed regarding the event.
Highway crews have been notified and have enacted emergency plans.
Transportation
Operating on a normal schedule.
Closing
Be Prepared:
Remember to check on neighbors, friends and family, especially seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions who are at an increased risk.
Keep a flashlight and fresh batteries handy.
If you rely on electricity to operate a well pump, fill your bathtub for an extra water reserve.
Ensure adequate supplies of prescription medicine and other necessities.
Keep your cell phone fully charged.
Fuel up your vehicles and if you use a generator be sure you have spare fuel (always read and follow the utility company’s and the manufacturer’s safety recommendations).
NEVER operate a generator in an enclosed space, even with a window or door open. This includes inside your home, basement or garage. Doing so can lead to a potentially lethal build-up of colorless, odorless, poisonous carbon monoxide gas.
Only have an experienced electrician connect a generator to your home. Improperly installed generators may overload circuits, cause a fire or shock hazard, and can result in serious injury or property damage. Improperly installed generators can also back-feed onto electric lines and endanger repair crews working to restore service.
Stock water and non-perishable foods that require no refrigeration or cooking.
Please monitor NY-Alert and www.putnamcountyny.gov for updates.