The streets of New York are engulfed in heavy rainfall causing a struggle for survival for the city’s vast infrastructure.
These torrential downpours caused various disruptions and closures across the US city making it the wettest September New York has experienced in 140 years.
Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York declared a “state of emergency for all of New York City, Long Island, and the Mid-Hudson region” on September 29th due to the assessed damage the flash floods created.
Effect on Locals:
After assessing the damage caused in the state New Yorkers were urged to use caution until flood warnings are lifted alongside avoiding walking or driving through apparent floodwaters.
Locals have shared their personal experiences on social media, revealing the chaos that follows the rain.
One individual claimed that the “level of rain in New York just transformed the city into Venice” whilst posting a video of the famous Brooklyn Bridge.
Another taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, said they “witnessed madness today” and for others to “be safe out there” in the city.
Insurance policies for local homeowners and renters exclude damages caused by flooding, putting those who live in flood-prone areas at a disadvantage when protecting their property and belongings.
As the general public stated that they “highly doubt anybody in NYC has flood insurance” and for those who do expressed that “flood insurance claims are going to sky rocket as we speak”.
State Responses:
Governor Kathy Hochul issued a state of emergency “effective immediately” in hopes to “support and keep New Yorkers safe” with her first act being to prepare residents for the flash floods, caused by the “extreme rainfall”.
As instructed, the New York Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services initiated the State Emergency Operations Center to continuously monitor real-time storm conditions and provide assistance for local governments within the US state.
Governmental officials have also posted guidelines on social media platforms to keep locals informed on the disarray that swarms the city. Manhattan Borough President, Mark Levine, advises citizens and tourists to “avoid travel if you can” as he shares subway service disruptions on “every single line”.
Next Steps for New York:
The City, a digital news platform that serves the people of New York, has published an article entitled “How to Clean Up After a Storm: A Guide for Flooded New Yorkers” giving locals advice on the next steps following the rainfall.
Hochul advises “everyone to continue practicing safety” as flood risks still remain although floodwaters are beginning to recede and the rainfall eases.