Rockland County residents should prepare for a potentially dangerous day of weather on (Saturday) Shabbos, as the National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch from 10:00 AM Saturday through 2:00 AM Sunday. Multiple rounds of heavy rain and severe thunderstorms are expected, bringing the threat of flash flooding, damaging winds, and even an isolated tornado.
Forecasters are calling for 1 to 1.5 inches of rainfall on average, with localized totals of 2 to 4 inches possible. Rainfall rates could reach 1.5 to 2 inches per hour, creating the potential for rapid flash flooding in low-lying areas, roadways, and locations with poor drainage. Flooded basements, stranded vehicles, road closures, and possible water rescues are all possible.
Severe thunderstorms are expected between noon and 11:00 PM, with the greatest threat arriving late (Saturday) Shabbos afternoon through the evening. Wind gusts of 60 to 70+ mph could bring down trees and power lines, resulting in scattered power outages. An isolated tornado also cannot be ruled out.
In preparation for the storm, Orange & Rockland Utilities (O&R) announced it is mobilizing its emergency response teams. In addition to line crews, vegetation management personnel, and customer service teams, 75 mutual aid workers have been placed on standby and are prepared to respond around the clock to restore service if outages occur.
Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways, secure outdoor furniture and other loose objects, charge electronic devices ahead of the storm, and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings. If a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning is issued, move indoors immediately and stay away from windows.
