Mayor Richard Thomas Issues Flood Warning

And Safety Tips for The City of Mount Vernon

(Friday, January 12, 2018) — Mayor Richard Thomas and The City of Mount Vernon are taking precautions in response to this weekend’s flood warnings.

“This weekend’s combination of rain and melting snow is a prescription for flooding,” said Mayor Thomas. “Our philosophy is to be proactive and city crews are out working hard to make sure sewers and drains can handle water surges from the storm. If residents are experiencing trouble, they should contact the city Building or Sewer Departments. Remember safety first.”

Mayor Thomas has identified flood zone advisory areas.

Flood Zone Advisory Areas:

· S. 3rd Avenue (Columbus Avenue to Kingsbridge Road)

· Gramatan Avenue (Roundabout)

· S. Fulton Avenue (E. 3rd Street to Sandford Blvd.)

· Franklin Avenue

· Edison Avenue

· Dock Street

· E. 5th Street

· Hutchinson Blvd

· Brookside Avenue

· Hanover Place (The Dam)

· Summit Avenue

Action Steps:

· All sewer crews are assigned to perform preventive maintenance on storm sewer drains in flood zones.

· All catch basins are being cleaned of debris to ensure water has adequate drainage into storm lines.

· Emergency Sewer Division crews will be on standby in case of any emergencies that may arise.

· Checking all municipal-owned building basements to ensure they are properly sealed and drainage systems are functioning properly.

· Ensuring Emergency facilities have backup generators in the event of a power outage.

Whether you live in a Flood Advisory Area or not, there are some common-sense precautions to take that can keep you safe and protect your property.

Safety Tips for Residents:

· If you do not have a sump pump, have a floor pump readily available.

· Ensure that gutters and downspouts are working properly and are directed away from foundations, do not direct flood waters onto your neighbor’s property.

· Seal all known cracks where water can enter the property and protect low areas with sandbags if necessary.

· To the extent possible raise all valuable items above flood levels where flooding has previously occurred.

· Store emergency items such as first aid kits, flashlights and portable radios in a safe, high place.

Residents and business owners can contact city officials at the numbers listed below.

· DPW 914–665–2460

· Police 914–665–2500

· Fire 914–665–2612

· In case of emergency, dial 9–1–1