Is there a hurricane coming that could potentially affect the northeast?
Although there hadn’t been any active storms in the North Atlantic or Caribbean Sea for quite a few weeks, Hurricane Helene is now expected to make her way into the Florida Gulf Coast. When she does make landfall, likely on Thursday, September 26th, meteorologists predict that she will be a Category 3 storm.
After a suspicious lull in the storm season — one that experts say hasn’t happened since 1968 — activity is once again picking up.
Is there a storm coming?
Hurricane Francine strengthened into a Category 2 Hurricane when she made landfall in Louisiana on September 11th, and now Hurricane Helene will bring severe weather to Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and western Cuba on September 25th before she makes her way to Florida’s Gulf Coast. The effects are likely to be widespread, though NYC will not feel them.
In August, Hurricane Ernesto threatened the possibility of rough weather and rip currents at NYC beaches (and beyond).
What does that mean for NYC?
The New York City Emergency Management Department indicates that there aren’t any weather updates at this time, but there was a travel advisory for coastal flooding from Thursday, September 19th to Monday, September 23rd.
According to the Weather Channel’s 10-day forecast, New York City is expected to have a mixture of low 70-degree temperatures and partly-cloudy conditions. Should there be any precipitation, it will likely be at the beginning of next week.
How do you prepare for a hurricane in NYC?
The Emergency Management Department has a comprehensive list of things to do to prepare for a hurricane in NYC, some of which include:
- Filling your bathtub with water
- Getting flashlights and extra batteries
- Refilling prescriptions
- Charging electronics while you can
- Turning your refrigerator and freezer to a colder setting
- Getting access to cash prior to the storm
Should you not have to evacuate, be prepared to lose power, stay inside and out of the basement, and sign up for the Notify NYC app.
How do you find your hurricane zone in NYC?
Should NYC face any extreme weather conditions, residents should consult their hurricane zones, which will indicate whether or they might have to evacuate and report to a shelter.
There are six zones throughout the five boroughs, and you can find yours by calling 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115) or utilizing the NYC Hurricane Evacuation Zone Finder.
What should be in a hurricane supply kit?
- Non-perishable food
- Water
- Batteries
- Flashlights
- First Aid Kits
- Medical necessities
- Cash
- Identification and important documents
- Manual can opener
The season is still underway, so we’ll keep you posted regarding any weather-related news affecting New Yorkers’ safety.
For updates, consult the New York City Emergency Management Department.