Governor Andrew Cuomo declared the week of April 28 through May 2 Severe Weather Awareness Week in New York. Each day this week, a different severe weather topic will be discussed. The hope is to make as many people aware of the dangers that severe weather can bring.
Severe weather has killed more than 50 people in New York over the last 20 years. When you factor in the number one severe weather killer, Flash Flooding, that number rises.
The National Weather Service urges media outlets as well as other public and private entities to help raise awareness during this week so that people’s lives can be saved.
By understanding severe weather terms and severe weather safety, lives will be saved. It is up to you to prepare yourself, your family and your property, for when severe weather strikes. Knowing these dangers and definitions will help you feel safe and even better prepared.
Today’s topic: flooding.
The Twin Tiers is one of the most flood prone areas in the country and this area is no stranger to the damage and destruction that flooding causes. Flash flooding is the most deadly because it happens very quickly. It most often happens as the result of very heavy rain over a short period of time. It can also happen as a result of ice jamming on streams and rivers. River flooding is slower to develop, but can be deadly and incredibly damaging. September 7-8, 2011 was the result of flash flooding and river flooding.
It is important to understand that if a river flood warning is issued, there are different stages of river flooding. There are 3 stages: Minor, Moderate and Major. An example of Major flooding was June 2006 and September 2011. This is the most dangerous and damage causing.
To find out more about the different flood stages, including Minor and Moderate, please visit:
To find out how to prepare for flooding visit:
How To Prepare For Flooding
To learn more about flooding definitions visit: