Westchester Reporter

Westchester County Executive George Latimer has urged residents to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season by reviewing their emergency plans and stocking up on essential supplies. With an active season predicted, Latimer emphasized the importance of advance preparation, recommending items such as flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable foods.

"The best time to stock up is when those emergency items are more readily available. In the same way, the best time to pack a go-bag is before a real emergency creates the need to have one," Latimer stated.

The National Weather Service forecasts an active 2024 Hurricane Season in the Atlantic Basin, predicting between 17 and 25 named storms, with eight to 13 expected to become hurricanes. The season runs from June 1 to November 30.

County emergency responders advise residents to set aside several days' worth of non-perishable food, water, and medicine. Critical supplies like flashlights and batteries should be kept on hand in case of power outages. Residents are also encouraged to have a "go-bag" ready for potential evacuations.

Commissioner Richard G. Wishnie of the Department of Emergency Services recommends creating an emergency preparedness kit. Westchester County Health Department Commissioner Sherlita Amler advised: "Before any major storm hits, residents should make a list of their medications, charge their cellphones and laptops, and fill their vehicle gas tanks too." She also recommended securing oil tanks at home to prevent spills or tipping during flooding.

Commissioner Terrance Raynor of the Department of Public Safety cautioned motorists against unnecessary travel during severe weather due to risks posed by flash-flooding. "Over the years, County Police officers have responded to rescue numerous motorists who have been stranded in rising water when their cars have stalled on flooded roadways," Raynor said.

Residents with generators are reminded of safety tips and advised to contact Con Edison or NYS Electric and Gas directly if they lose power:

- Con Ed power outage or service problems: (800) 75-CONED

- NYSEG electricity power outage: (800) 572-1131

- NYSEG gas power outage: (800) 572-1121

Wishnie also highlighted additional preparations for families with special needs members or those caring for elderly individuals, infants, or pets. Families should plan communication strategies in case local phone services are unavailable or overwhelmed.

Further practical tips can be found at https://emergencyservices.westchestergov.com/severe-weather or https://www.ready.gov/. Residents can subscribe to the weekly My Westchester email newsletter for updates on local events by entering their email address.