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Cuomo Urges Residents To Prepare For Heavy Rains, Flooding

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. -- Gov. Andrew Cuomo is urging residents to begin preparing for potential heavy rains and flooding with the possible arrival of Hurricane Joaquin this weekend.

Hurricane Joaquin could bring heavy winds and rain to the area this weekend or early next week.

Hurricane Joaquin could bring heavy winds and rain to the area this weekend or early next week.

Photo Credit: National Weather Service

The governor also reminded resident to sign up for the NY-Alert at https://users.nyalert.gov to receive immediate alerts on flood warnings and severe storms.

"Our state has seen the damage that extreme weather can cause time and time again -- and I urge New Yorkers take precautions for more heaving storms in the coming days," Cuomo said. "Tropical Storm Lee and Hurricane Irene proved that you do not have to be near the coast to be impacted by Mother Nature."

The governor added he has directed state agencies to prepare their emergency response equipment and to work in partnership with local governments so everyone is prepared.

He also encourages residents to prepare their homes for possible flooding and to have a family plan if the need of evacuation arises.

Hurricane Joaquin currently is on a course toward the central Bahamas and is expected to move northward much of this weekend, roughly paralleling the East Coast. There is nearly equal possibility the storm will make landfall along the mid-Atlantic coast, the New England coast or veer out to sea, according to the National Weather Service.

Because of the potential close proximity of the hurricane to the coast, people from North Carolina to Massachusetts will need to closely monitor the track and strength of Joaquin.

Residents should make sure they have emergency supplies on hand, such as flashlights and batteries, enough water and canned goods for 72 hours, an a family contact plan, said John Melville, Commissioner of the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

"The state is doing its part to make sure we are read to support our local partners quickly, however it all starts at home," he said. "Residents should begin monitoring weather conditions though local media reports and be sure to follow any protective orders issued by emergency officials.

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