Governor Kathy Hochul has directed the state DEC to issue an emergency declaration for 18 counties impacted by severe storms and flooding on August 9th and 10th.
Governor Kathy Hochul has authorized an emergency declaration to aid 18 counties, including several in the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier, in rebuilding critical infrastructure damaged by severe storms and flash flooding on August 9th and 10th. This directive enables the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to expedite permit reviews for crucial recovery efforts.
Counties Affected:
- Allegany
- Broome
- Chemung
- Chenango
- Cortland
- Delaware
- Essex
- Franklin
- Jefferson
- Lewis
- Ontario
- Oswego
- Schoharie
- Schuyler
- Steuben
- St. Lawrence
- Tioga
- Yates
Key points of the emergency declaration include:
- Fast-tracking permit reviews for repairing infrastructure and structures over waterways.
- Restoring waterway channel capacity and other essential activities to ensure public safety.
- Utilizing the Statewide General Permit for stream activities in impacted areas, which simplifies the process by avoiding individual permit requirements.
Governor Hochul stated, “After Hurricane Debby upended the lives of countless New Yorkers, I’ve directed DEC to issue an emergency declaration to expedite recovery efforts so that families and businesses can rebuild. My administration is working around the clock to provide resources and assistance to communities in need, and we will continue to make every effort to ensure a full recovery.”
Additional Information:
- DEC will conduct site visits, meet with property owners and local leaders, and provide technical guidance for emergency permit applications. For details, visit the NYSPGP-1 webpage for permit instructions and information.
- Property owners can pump floodwaters from residential structures without a permit, but should direct water to grassy areas if possible. For waters affected by hazardous materials, contact DEC’s Spill hotline at 1-800-457-7362 before addressing the floodwaters.
This emergency declaration aims to facilitate a swift recovery and support communities in rebuilding their essential infrastructure.
