Many residents of Westchester County have experienced the damages that flooding can produce.

It's important to remember that Spring is the time of year when flooding can occur quickly and without much warning. Spring rains and winter snow and ice thaws can cause flooding and affect homes, property, and, most importantly, personal safety.

Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the US
Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States and can happen anywhere. The Federal Emergency Management Agency's How to Prepare for a Flood explains how to protect yourself and your property, and details the steps to take now so that you can act quickly when you, your home, or your business is in danger.

Selected recent high impact flood events

  • Aug. 12-13, 2014: Historic Long Island freshwater flash flooding
  • Oct. 29, 2012:Historic NY/NJ Storm Surge coastal flooding with Super Storm Sandy
  • Aug. 28, 2011: Record NJ/NY/CT freshwater river flooding with Hurricane Irene

To monitor real-time water levels across the local area, go to the Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service. (Change the Auto Refresh tab to ON for real-time monitoring.)

Also, visit Weather-Ready Nation Flood Safety for more information from the National Weather Service about staying safe, protecting property, and enhancing the economy.

Terms to know

Flood or Flash Flood Watch: Indicates that flooding or flash flooding will occur within a few hours of heavy rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or water is being released from an ice jam.

Flood or Flash Flood Warning: Inundation of a normally dry area near a stream or other watercourse, or unusually severe ponding of water has been reported or is imminent.