Hurricane Preparedness for New York Residents

When it comes to hurricane preparedness, it is always best to prepare and plan for your home ahead of time. In the event that a Hurricane reaches New York, or we experience extreme weather resulting from a tropical storm or hurricane nearby, all residents should review the safety tips below:

About This Guide

This is not an exhaustive list and every storm is different. Therefore, guidance and preparation for every storm will vary. Please use this guide as a general starting point when preparing for a tropical storm or hurricane.

Hurricane Preparedness for New York Residents

1. Pay close attention to local and regional weather reports:
   • Recommended Phone App: NOAA Weather Radar Live
   • Check Hurricane Forecasts: National Hurricane Center and Natural Pacific Hurricane Center
   • Additional Local Weather Resources
     
2. When a storm is about to approach, remove, or secure all loose items from your terrace, patio, deck, etc. as high winds can cause loose items to damage your home or community association.
   
3. Make sure that you know how to contact management and your superintendent (if applicable) in the event of an emergency. Additionally, update your contact information with your property manager if you have any changes or updates. Be sure to opt-in to communications with management so that we can communicate with you as needed.
   
4. Be sure to have a first–aid kit containing all medications necessary for your family should a storm hit Long Island, Brooklyn, or Queens. Also, stock up on important medications.
   
5. In case of a power outage, stock up on canned and shelf stable food. Plus, be sure to have a manual can opener, and enough food to last several days for each family member, including pets.
   
6. The recommended quantity of drinking water to stock per person and pet is approximately one gallon of water per person/pet, per day anticipating coverage for at least three days.
   
7. If you have a cooler, fill it with ice and perishables, i.e.—milk, meat, etc. prior to a storm. Keeping your fridge and freezer closed will allow for perishables to last longer.
   
8. Fill your car(s) with gas before a storm, and stay off the roads during a storm. After a storm, use extreme caution when leaving or returning to your home and wait for officials to deem it safe to be back on the road.
   
9. Keep cash at the ready in the event that ATMs are unavailable after a storm.
   
10. Make sure to have flashlights, a battery­–powered radio, and extra batteries. Additionally, charge your external power banks for your phone. Download useful apps for digital natural disaster preparedness. Examples include but are not limited to:
    
    • Gas Buddy
    • Google Maps
    • Zello Walkie Talkie (Cell Service Still Required)
    • Red Cross Apps (Various)
    • NPR Article: “17 Apps To Help You Get Through The Hurricane”
    • Insurance App (from Your Carrier(s))
      
11. If the local and/or state authorities direct residents to evacuate, their instructions must be followed for your safety. Inform family, friends, and neighbors of your plans. Have an evacuation plan ahead of time so that you and your family are prepared in the event that leaving your home is necessary. Also, plan and pack a “go kit.”
    
12. Before an emergency, register for local alerts such as Smart-911. Additionally, If you live in the New York City area enroll in the free safety alert system issued by the city of New York. Download the Notify NYC app. Review local contact information and resources and save them for future use.
    
13. Don’t forget to check in on elderly neighbors before, during, and after a storm.
    
14. Plan for your pets if you have any. Additionally, include pet food, pet medications, and ample water when planning an emergency kit for your household.
    
15. Before or after a tropical storm or hurricane, Stay cool during a heatwave should the temperature spike in New York.

Additional Hurricane Preparedness Resources for New York Residents

• Local Emergency Resources
• Ready.gov: Additional Hurricane Preparedness
• Hurricane Checklist(Before, During, and After a Hurricane)
• PSEG LI: Storm Safety
• National Grid
• Red Cross (New York Chapters)
• NYC.GOV: Know Your (Flood) Zone

Downloads

Infographic: 6 Hurricane Preparedness Tips ➔

In Case of Emergencies: Important Phone Numbers ➔

Census Form (Emergency Contact Form) ➔

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