New Yorkers Urged to Take Safety Measures in Preparation for Potential Coastal Storm this Weekend

#33-25

October 10, 2025

NEW YORKERS URGED TO TAKE SAFETY MEASURES IN PREPARATION FOR POTENTIAL COASTAL STORM THIS WEEKEND

City Issues Weather Alert as Impacts from Storm May Include Strong Winds, Heavy Surf, and Potentially Major Coastal Flooding

NEW YORK - New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) is urging New Yorkers, especially those living along the coast, to prepare for potential impacts from a storm expected to affect the city Sunday, October 12 through Monday, October 13. The National Weather Service (NWS) has forecast a total of 1.5 to 3 inches of rain with locally higher amounts possible.

A coastal storm forming off the Southeast coast Friday night is expected to move north this holiday weekend, bringing strong winds, heavy surf, and periods of heavy rain that may cause coastal flooding in the city, including highways, streets, basements, and underpasses. Communities along southern Brooklyn, southern Queens, the eastern shore of Staten Island, and the Bronx shoreline are at greatest risk for flooding and storm impact. 

"This weekend, New Yorkers should expect a storm that will bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding," said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. "Our teams are ready and prepared, but as always, we encourage New Yorkers to stay aware and connected through Notify NYC to prepare for any impacts. We will continue to monitor this storm to keep our city safe and strong."

"We're keeping a close eye on this storm as it moves up the coast," said NYCEM Commissioner Zach Iscol. "While the exact impacts will depend on the storm's track, we're expecting strong winds and coastal flooding, especially in our shoreline communities. We encourage all New Yorkers to begin preparing now: make a plan, check on your neighbors, and sign up for Notify NYC alerts."

NYCEM recommends the following preparedness actions for New Yorkers for those in coastal flood-prone regions and low-lying areas:

• Relocate parked vehicles to higher ground or inland, ensuring they do not obstruct roadways or block emergency access. 
• Communication and Information: Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts through various channels, including Notify NYC, available in 13 different languages, with a special sub-group dedicated to Basement Apartment Dwellers. Subscribe to Notify NYC at NYC.gov/NotifyNYC, download the app in your phone's app store, or dial 311. Keep a battery-powered radio ready for timely updates, particularly if power outages are expected.  
• Gather Supplies: Every household member should have a Go Bag packed with essential items, such as bottled water, non-perishable food, and basic medical supplies. 
• Tidal Awareness and Coastal Barriers: Monitor tide tables and storm surge forecasts. Know when high tides are expected in your vicinity and be prepared to adjust your plans. Where feasible, deploy sandbags or other deployables suitable for a residence to reduce the risk of tidal water intrusion. 
• Watercraft and Boat Security: If you own boats or watercraft, secure or relocate them immediately. Fluctuating tides can not only carry them away but loose watercraft can cause additional damage. 
• Storm Drains and Local Warnings: If it's safe to do so, check and clear any nearby storm drains to help manage water runoff and lessen the chances of localized flooding. Pay attention to localized warnings, especially those pertaining to rip currents and high waves. 
• Beach Closures and Coastal Roads: Remain updated on any beach closures, as flooding can swiftly make these areas hazardous. Beaches are closed to swimming. Plan alternative travel routes to avoid low-lying coastal roads that may be susceptible to flooding. 
• Home Safety and Utility Measures: Ensure your home's sump pumps are operational and familiarize yourself with how to safely shut off utilities like gas, water, and electricity. If you reside in a basement or below-grade apartment, be particularly vigilant, as these areas are more susceptible to flooding. Follow City guidance for additional actions specific to below-grade dwellings. Subscribe to Notify NYC's Basement Apartment Dweller subgroup for key alerts. 
• Document & Insurance Review: Secure essential documents in waterproof containers and maintain digital backups. Review your insurance to ensure you have specialized flood coverage, as standard policies often don't cover flood and wind damage. Consider enrolling in the National Flood Insurance Program. Learn more at floodsmart.gov.  
• Prepare for Outages: To gear up for potential power disruptions, keep your cell phones charged, stock up on supplies. If power outages are predicted, consider adjusting your refrigerator and freezer to colder settings to extend the shelf life of perishable items. Ensure that flashlights and battery-operated radios or TVs are functional, keeping extra batteries on hand. If you rely on Life Sustaining Equipment (LSE) and lose power, dial 911 for immediate assistance, and remember never to use generators indoors. Check on vulnerable individuals in your community, such as older adults and people with disabilities or health conditions and assist them in their preparations. 
• Pet Safety: Make provisions for your pets' safety, including the need to leave your home and to take your pet with you. 
• Plan for Special Needs & Check on Your Neighbors: Make it a point to check on neighbors who are older adults or who may require special assistance. If you have a disability or specific access and functional needs, make sure your emergency plan accounts for how these factors could impact your ability to respond quickly and communicate effectively during a crisis. Seek assistance from your family or service providers as needed. 
• Avoidance and Caution: Do not venture into flooded areas. These zones may be contaminated or electrically charged. Take preemptive action by assembling a Go Bag with essentials like food, water, and first-aid supplies. 
• Documentation: When it's safe, contribute to our collective flood risk understanding by capturing and submitting photos via the MyCoast portal (mycoast.org/ny) or the MyCoast app. Don't forget to also file flood reports through 311.  
• Real-Time Awareness: Stay updated on changing flood conditions by monitoring real-time flood depth via the FloodNet website (floodnet.nyc). 

For the latest updates, visit NYCEM's website, sign up for emergency alerts by visiting the Notify NYC page, or call 311.

###

MEDIA CONTACT: NYCEM Press Office (718) 422-4888
STAY CONNECTED: @NotifyNYC (emergency notifications), @nycemergencymgt (emergency preparedness info)