Goshen – The Orange County Executive’s Office and the Department of Emergency Services participated in a briefing by the National Weather Service at 2:30 pm today and were advised that Orange County would be experiencing 18-24 hours of rain, heavy at times, as well as tropical force winds from Saturday evening to Sunday evening based on current forecasts.
Orange County is currently in a Tropical Storm Watch, which may be changed to a Tropical Storm warning.
“If residents live near a river, creek or stream they should monitor water levels and be prepared to seek higher ground if water levels rise rapidly,” said Orange County Commissioner of Emergency Services Walter C. Koury.
County residents should be prepared to expect extended power outages due to the sustained tropical winds forecasted for our area leading to downed trees and power lines that may stress the capabilities of local utilities.
Commissioner Koury said, “Please remember to check on neighbors and family members who have special needs, and call 2-1-1 for questions regarding special needs, housing, or transportation. And please, ONLY call 9-1-1 in an actual emergency.”
This afternoon, at approximately 4:00 pm, Deputy County Executive James D. O’Donnell briefed the County’s cities, towns and villages on the county’s emergency plans.
Deputy County Executive O’Donnell recommends that residents stay indoors and not travel from 6:00 pm Saturday evening until 6:00 pm Sunday evening, as this is when the County is expected to experience the most rain and wind.
The Division of Emergency Management is continuing to closely monitor the situation along with our federal, state and local partners.
Deputy Commissioner Seamus K. Leary reminds residents NOT to run generators inside buildings, including garages – DO NOT approach down wires, and DO NOT drive through flooded roadways.
Orange County Emergency Management recommends that County residents stay informed during this emergency by registering at www.nyalert.gov to receive critical public safety information, and consider becoming a fan of Emergency Management’s Facebook page OrangeCounty EmergencyManagement.
