The heavy rain, that first began to move through the state Sunday evening, has now affected western, central and downstate regions of the state. Total rainfall of 1 to 3 inches is expected with the higher amounts in the Southern Tier. Ponding of water on roadways has been happening in the area and driving can be hazardous. Flood Watches have been issued by the National Weather Service in parts of Western New York, the Southern Tier, Central New York, and the western portions of the Mohawk Valley through Tuesday morning. New York’s Strategic Stockpiles are staffed, and equipment has been prepared for deployment as necessary. The New York State Emergency Operations Center is at Level 4 activation, indicating Enhanced monitoring.
We are also keeping an eye on Hurricane Florence, which has been upgraded to a Category 4. It is expected to make landfall in the Carolinas Thursday. The current track has the storm turning slightly north, however it is too early to judge the affect on the Twin Tiers.