New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) is urging New Yorkers to remain alert and be prepared in advance of Hurricane Lee, while the storm poses no immediate threat to the city, the office is continuing to monitor the storm in advance of potential impacts. The Category 3 storm is currently located about 550 miles south of Bermuda.
At this time, no significant winds, rain or flooding are expected. However, indirect impacts, such as high surf and dangerous rip currents, are likely to develop along Atlantic-facing beaches tomorrow.
“We are closely watching Hurricane Lee and while its impact on New York City is still uncertain, these next few days are the best time to review your own emergency plans and supplies as we move through the peak of hurricane season,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol, in a press release. “Our City’s emergency managers are fully engaged and coordinating across agencies to ensure the safety of our residents. But we can't do it alone. I urge every New Yorker to review your emergency plans, know if you are in an evacuation zone, and stay informed through Notify NYC. We all play a role in our city's resilience.”
NYCEM is advising all residents, especially those in flood-prone areas, as well as basement apartment dwellers, to undertake preemptive preparedness actions to prepare for this and future storms. The actions include making a plan for how to stay safe if a storm impacts New York City, and having a Go Bag that includes food, water, first-aid supplies, and other essentials.
Key preparedness tips include:
1. Know your zone
- Be aware of your evacuation zone; visit NYC.gov/KnowYourZone to check if you're in one of these areas.
2. Make a plan
- Develop a comprehensive emergency plan to ensure the safety of you and your family. Visit NYC.gov/ReadyNY for resources and guidance on creating your plan.
3. Stay informed
- Sign up for Notify NYC, the official, free emergency communications program of the City of New York.
- Receive emergency notifications via the Notify NYC mobile app, NYC.gov/notifynyc, 311, or @NotifyNYC on Twitter.
- Messages are available in 13 languages, including American Sign Language.
For more safety tips, visit NYC.gov/SevereWeather.
