The storms are expected to bring heavy rain capable of causing flash flooding on Long Island, just a day after strong storms disrupted Fourth of July celebrations, prompting officials in Nassau and Suffolk counties to declare a state of emergency.
The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the region in effect until 6 a.m. Tuesday, July 7, as parts of Long Island still recover from the severe storms that hit the area just as the Fourth of July fireworks shows began.
“Excessive water runoff could cause flooding in urban areas, rivers, streams, creeks and other low-lying or flood-prone areas,” Upton-based forecasters said in a statement.
“Several waves of heavy rain and thunderstorms through Monday night will likely leave significant precipitation totals of between 2 and 3 inches, with locally higher amounts of 4 inches or more. Rainfall of up to 2 inches per hour is possible.
This storm threat follows widespread reports of severe thunderstorms that disrupted the historic 250th anniversary celebrations of Independence across the country.
Locally, winds of up to 87 miles per hour were recorded in Baiting Hollow, downing trees, blocking roads and causing power outages to more than 43,000 PSEG Long Island customers; More than 7,000 of them were still without power as the new storm approached.
“Due to the likelihood of extreme precipitation and the risk of flooding and falling trees, I am declaring a state of emergency from 6 pm today (Sunday) until 6 am Tuesday,” announced Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, adding that no mandatory evacuation is required.
“Residents should be aware of water accumulation on roads and avoid traveling through flooded areas, as conditions can be dangerous. Make sure your pets are sheltered and your electronic devices are fully charged. In the event of a power outage, use battery-powered flashlights instead of candles to reduce the risk of fire.
In turn, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine issued his state of emergency declaration effective at 8 pm on July 4, following the severe storm that brought torrential rains, damaging winds, flash flooding, widespread power outages, road closures and considerable damage to public and private property throughout Suffolk. He added that the state of emergency will be in effect for 30 days.
“The declaration authorizes county departments and agencies to take all necessary measures to protect lives, property and critical infrastructure, as well as to provide emergency assistance to residents as response and recovery efforts continue,” Romaine said in a statement.
To report a downed wire or power outage, call PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour electric service line at 800-490-0075.
