The National Weather Service has currently issued a flash flood watch for the Ashokan Watershed and much of the rest of the region. Tropical Storm Isaias is currently tracking up the eastern seaboard and bringing heavy rains and damaging winds in its path. While the region has been abnormally dry this summer and the rain itself is welcome, the potential intensity of the downpours could cause localized flooding.
Our Watershed is no stranger to floods but it is still a good idea to be prepared. Throughout the day today, monitor the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) weather radio and/or local weather stations to get updated information about conditions. You can also monitor local stream gages by going to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) website. The Allaben and Coldbrook stream gages are two major gages on the Esopus Creek.
If possible, please stay home. High winds could topple trees and power lines making roads impassible. In addition, flood waters across roadways are particularly dangerous and lead to a high number of injuries and fatalities each year because water depths are often deceiving. Remember, it only takes one foot of moving water to move most passenger cars and six inches of moving water to knock a person over. If you come across a flooded roadway always Turn Around Don’t Drown!
If your locality issues evacuation orders please evacuate to your nearest emergency shelter immediately and follow all instructions from local officials and emergency responders.
For more information on flood preparedness and what to do in an emergency you can view the AWSMP Flood Emergency Preparedness Guide. Also be sure to check out resources from FEMA’s Ready.gov website and the NY Extension Disaster Education Network (NY EDEN) website.
Tags: flash flood, flood, flood preparedness