New York – Severe Thunderstorm Watch: NYC Issues Travel Advisory

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    A woman walks with an umbrella in the rain at Times Square in New York February 24, 2016.  REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton New York, NY – NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio today issued a Travel Advisory for Wednesday evening through early Thursday morning.

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    “We’re expecting strong winds and some thunderstorms this evening,” said Mayor de Blasio. “New Yorkers should be very careful driving and walking tonight.”

    A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means that conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms to occur. According to the National Weather Service, strong winds of 20 to 30MPH are forecast with gusts up to 50MPH. High winds could cause downed tree limbs, isolated power outages, and make driving difficult.

    New Yorkers are urged to take the following precautions:

    • If you must drive a vehicle, monitor weather and traffic reports for the latest road conditions.

    • Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible as these roadways will be cleared first.

    • Drive slowly. Vehicles, including those with 4-wheel drive, take longer to stop in wet conditions than on dry pavement.

    • Exercise caution and avoid walking on slippery surfaces.

    • Have heightened awareness of cars, particularly when approaching or crossing intersections.

    • Avoid walking or driving through flooded streets. As few as six inches of moving water can knock a person over. One to two feet of water can carry away a vehicle.

    • Flood water can be contaminated. Avoid contact with sewer water, as it poses a serious health risk.

    • If you are affected by a power outage, turn off all appliances and keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to prevent food spoilage. If you lose power and have a disability or access needs, or use Life Sustaining Equipment (LSE) and need immediate assistance, dial 9-1-1.

    • Report any downed power lines and avoid standing in flood water, as it can carry electrical current.


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