New York is educating the public to be aware of extreme weather as we approach the summer months ahead during Severe Weather Awareness Week. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the week of awareness in a news release this week.
Severe weather is classified as weather events that can have disastrous consequences, including flash floods, severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. Hochul and Jackie Bray, commissioner of emergency services, urged New Yorkers to be prepared for these severe weather events should they ever arise.
That includes keeping an eye to the sky and to know to take shelter immediately when a tornado warning is issued by the National Weather Service.
And in a thunderstorm, it’s advised to follow the 30-30 rule: if you hear thunder within 30 seconds or less following a lightning strike, seek shelter immediately.
Other suggestions include abandoning a vehicle if surrounding by rising water, and to never attempt passing a flooded road It’s also good to have disaster supplies at the ready including a flashlight with a stockpile of extra batteries and a battery-operated radio.
The awareness week runs through Saturday.
