NEWBURGH - City Manager Richard Herbek today ordered a State of Emergency for the City of Newburgh effective 6:00 a.m. Monday, October 29, 2012. He has further ordered City Departments to prepare for the potential impact of Hurricane Sandy, which will effect New York State Monday and Tuesday. He has instructed Fire Chief Michael Vatter to track the storm and to prepare the City’s response.
"We are actively working to ensure that Newburgh is prepared for the potential impact of Hurricane Sandy," Chief Vatter said. "The City government is coordinating with our County and State partners so that we can effectively respond to any emergency situation that may arise due to the storm. I encourage City residents to pay close attention to the local weather stations and news outlets and, if necessary, to follow the instructions of emergency officials. By properly preparing in advance, we can quickly and decisively take action when the storm arrives."
The actual strength of the hurricane will depend on its course up the east coast of the United States. While Long Island and New York City are considered most at risk, Newburgh and other inland cities can also be affected by heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Hurricane Sandy is a slow moving storm and has the potential to cause long duration power outages because of the size of the wind field. The storm is expected make landfall in central New Jersey late tomorrow. We can expect the storm to begin to affect our area Monday morning.
The City has designated the Newburgh Armory Unity Center as an emergency shelter.
The shelter will open at 1:00 p.m. Monday. Unfortunately, the shelter is unable to take pets.
City residents should take stock of their emergency supplies, such as water, nonperishable food, radios, batteries, supplies for any pets, and first aid kits. Please check in with neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled, who might need assistance to ensure that their needs are met if emergency instructions are issued.
Residents should gather the following items in preparation for the impending storm:
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Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
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Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days:
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non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
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foods for infants or the elderly
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snack foods
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non-electric can opener
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cooking tools / fuel
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paper plates / plastic utensils
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Blankets / Pillows, etc.
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Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
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First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs
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Special Items - for babies and the elderly
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Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes
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Flashlight / Batteries
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Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
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Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set
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Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods
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Keys
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Toys, Books and Games
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Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag- insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
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Tools - keep a set with you during the storm
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Vehicle fuel tanks filled
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Pet care items:
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proper identification / immunization records / medications
