Putnam Declares State Of Emergency

SOUTHEAST, NY -- Putnam County has declared a State of Emergency in the wake of tonight’s serious storm. As of 10:20 p.m., NYSEG reported 28,050 and Central Hudson reported 4,698 customers without power.

State, county and local highway crews are working to clear roadways, county officials said. Many of the downed trees involve power lines and that creates an additional safety hazard.

“Our dedicated highway crews and first responders are working with the local utility companies to ensure that the downed trees can be safely removed,” Said County Executive MaryEllen Odell. “This is a coordinated effort that is being addressed by the Command Staff at the EOC."

Putnam County Incident Command was activated by Commissioner Clair at Odell's direction at 5 pm.

Officials requested that NYSEG dispatch a representative to the EOC where they are required to work with EOC staff allowing highway crews to begin cut and clearing to open roads. However, they said, NYSEG indicated that there would be at least a 3-hour delay, slowing the road clearing process.

Motorists are reminded that state law mandates that if an intersection is "blacked out" and the traffic signal is not operational, the intersection is automatically a "four way" stop. In the event of closed or blocked roadways due to flooding, downed power lines or debris, motorists are advised to exercise caution and obey all traffic signs or barricades in place, regardless of whether a roadway looks clear.

Stay away from any lines that are down as they may be live, and should be considered extremely dangerous.

New Yorkers should also check on friends, family and neighbors, especially the elderly.

SEE:

• Cuomo Declares States Of Emergency In Several HV Counties
• Delays, Suspended Service Continue For Metro-North: UPDATE
  
• Tornado Spotted In Hudson Valley Tuesday
  
• Preliminary Storm Damage Report: National Weather Service
  

Residents are reminded that to report a power outage or downed wires you should call your local utility company; NYSEG 800-572-1131. Central Hudson 845-452-2700 or use their apps. Both utility companies are in the process of evaluating the damage and do not have a restoration time available.

PHOTO: Carmel High School hidden by downpour in May 15 storm/ Lanning Taliaferro