The Catskill Chronicle

MONTICELLO, NY (September 6, 2011) – Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau has issued a Flash Flood Watch associated with heavy rain potential into Thursday afternoon.

Fanslau said, "The National Weather Service (NSW) has issued a flash flood watch in Sullivan County.  The remnants of Tropical Storm Lee will move north today and become stalled over the Central Appalachian Mountains in the vicinity of West Virginia tonight through Thursday. Moisture from Lee will be forced into a slow moving frontal system, and beneath a strengthening piece of the jet stream, bringing the potential for heavy rain to our region from tonight into Thursday.

“Significant rainfall is expected to redevelop across all of Central New York and Northeast Pennsylvania tonight. If the expected rainfall develops, flash flooding could develop by late tonight and continue into Wednesday night. The latest rainfall forecasts suggest storm totals through Thursday will range from two (2) to three (3) inches across the Upper Delaware Basin, to six (6) or more inches across the Upper Susquehanna, Chemung and Finger Lakes Basins. That rain could cause significant river flooding by Thursday afternoon, with most river locations having a chance to reach minor to moderate flood stage on Thursday. If all or more of the currently forecast rain falls there would be a potential for dangerous moderate to major flooding on some rivers by Thursday night and Friday. There is still considerable uncertainty with the track and forecast amounts of rain with this system. A small shift in the storm track will mean significant changes to rainfall and river crest forecasts.

“Residents are advised to not drive your vehicle into areas where the water covers the roadway. The water depth may be too great to allow your car to cross safely. Move to higher ground
I strongly urge any resident who lives near a stream, creek or river to be prepared and alert as this storm progresses, and to take preventative measures to protect their property through sandbags, etc. Outdoor, moveable property should be secured, and indoor property should be put up in case of flooding in the home. Furthermore, in case of emergency, all residents in these areas should make preparations to vacate their home if conditions warrant, and are strongly urged to comply with any and all reasonable requests from law enforcement or emergency responders during an emergency.
County residents, particularly those in flood-prone areas, are also urged to have enough flashlights and extra batteries, canned goods and bottled water for 48 hours, in case of power outage or emergency. Residents are encouraged to make arrangements to check on elderly neighbors, and arrange for pets to be housed either inside, or with proper shelter.

“During the storm all County residents are urged to remain indoors and off roadways whenever possible. If residents must drive, they are advised to exercise extreme caution when driving through this storm, and to pay special attention not to drive through pooling or standing water. If there are flood conditions on a roadway, please do not travel through the water.

“Sullivan County officials will be in contact with all towns, village and fire departments in the flood-prone areas, to ensure all precautionary measures are being taken, and implementing contingency plans in case of flooding. County officials will remain in contact with these towns, village and volunteer first-responders throughout the storm, as they monitor the situations in their own communities.
Should flooding occur in Sullivan County, residents and visitors are urged to visit the County website, http://www.co.sullivan.ny.us, for current news and information."