New York Governor Kathy Hochul warned on August 8th that the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby are still looming, with expectations of bringing heavy rain and strong winds to New York State on the 9th. The rainfall is projected to be “disastrous,” potentially leading to river flooding and floods. Residents living in flood-prone areas are urged to ensure proper evacuation preparations.
According to weather forecasts, heavy rain is expected to start on the evening of the 8th and intensify on the 9th, continuing until the 10th. During this period, Debby is expected to merge with another storm system, bringing 2 to 4 inches of rainfall, with some areas in upstate New York and central regions possibly seeing up to 6 inches of rainfall, raising concerns of river flooding and floods. New York City, Long Island, and downstream areas of the Hudson River may experience severe thunderstorms accompanied by damaging gusts and brief tornadoes. Coastal areas could see gusts of 35 to 45 miles per hour, leading to tree damage, tipping, and power outages.
During a press conference on the 8th, Governor Hochul stated that she is not trying to create panic, but emphasized that some areas could see up to 6 inches of rainfall, with maximum hourly rates of 2 inches, potentially resulting in significant consequences. She mentioned that the state government has taken various measures to prepare, including mobilizing 100 National Guard members and deploying over 5,500 utility workers statewide. She further advised residents in flood-prone areas to closely monitor weather forecasts, not to drive during heavy rain, prepare luggage, develop evacuation plans, and evacuate to safe places if necessary.
The state government also recommended that people check the complete list of relevant weather alerts on the National Weather Service website: alerts.weather.gov, and subscribe to New York State’s emergency alert service: alert.ny.gov, to receive emergency information on their phones or computers at any time.
After passing through three states, Debby is expected to bring clear and pleasant weather on Saturday, the 10th, with a forecasted high temperature of 83 degrees Fahrenheit. The 11th is also expected to be clear and pleasant, with a high temperature of 81 degrees Fahrenheit.