Video: 5 Things to Know About Hurricane Joaquin and Its Potential Impact on New York

Written by JAIMIE CURA (Patch Staff)

Meteorologists are busy this week in New York, thanks to Hurricane Joaquin. The storm is presently situated approximately 65 miles southeast of San Salvador in the central Bahamas.

Joaquin’s Strength Will Increase

Initially, Joaquin was expected to obtain category 4 status by Friday afternoon, but it reached that level by Thursday afternoon, according to AccuWeather.com. Winds are approaching 140 mph.

Impact to Hudson Valley

Beyond Friday, it’s still too early to tell if the storm will directly hit the New York City-Metropolitan area or what the timing will be. The Weather Channel anticipates Hurricane Joaquin moving out to the Atlantic and weakening to tropical storm status.

One thing is certain — the rain is the biggest threat to Westchester, Rockland and Putnam counties at the moment. Some areas may see widespread rain totals of five inches or more.

“A significant overnight trend to the east has us thinking an ‘out to sea’ track of Joaquin is more likely than not,” Meteorologist Ryan Hanrahan said on Facebook. “It’s too early to sound the all-clear for the east coast but things look better for now.”

How to Prepare

Download the Red Cross’ free hurricane app. It includes an ‘I’m safe’ button to let family know you’re OK, a map of shelters, a flashlight, strobe light and more.

Know your evacuation route just in case. This website shares evacuation routes for New York and nearby states, but it’s best to check with your local emergency department.

Create or update your disaster supply kit. Essentials: water, flashlights, batteries, cash, first aid supplies and any identification or emergency documents you may need

Keep Your Pets Safe

With heavy rains and high winds in the forecast, it’s best to keep your pets indoors during the duration of the storm.

Fasten a current ID tag to your pet’s collar with your contact information and an out-of-state family member

Tropical Storm Vs. Hurricane

When it comes to a storm being tropical versus being a hurricane, it’s all about the wind. In a tropical storm, wind gusts must consistently be at 39 mph or more, but no higher than 73 mph.

Category 1 hurricane status occurs when winds increase to 74 mph minimum, capping at 95 mph.

Patch Editor Alfred Branch contributed to this report.

Map via Accuweather.com