Capital Region Residents Told to Brace for Powerful Multi-Hazard Storm

Powerful Multi-Hazard Storm

Just a day or two removed from the first significant snowstorm here in the Capital Region, residents have been told to brace for even more impactful weather and high wind as a "powerful multi-hazard storm" makes its way into our region this week.

Inclement weather is a way of life in Upstate NY, and winter storms are nothing new.  But this weather pattern could change quickly and it's always better to be "safe", rather than "sorry".

Here's what we know about what could be coming our way 

On Tuesday morning, the Albany Police Department posted a warning on their Facebook page as well as alerting residents through Nixle about the storm headed our way this afternoon into tomorrow morning.

According to Weather.com, a wind advisory is in effect from 4 pm this afternoon to 7 am on Wednesday.  Southeast winds could be anywhere from 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 55 mph expected. The weather source states that "gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result."

"Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high-profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects." Weather.com

What to Expect

• The report from the Albany Police warned residents and businesses to prepare for impacts of wet, heavy snow followed by heavy rain, snow melt, and high winds.
• The forecast has predicted up to 1 inch of heavy, wet snow followed by 1 to 1.5 inches of rain and winds from 30 MPH to 40 MPH with gusts up to 60 MPH.
• Heavy rains could cause flooding in low-lying areas.
• The City's Water Department crews are working to clear catch basins prone to areas to help mitigate localized flooding, and The Department of General Services is preparing crews to assist with clearing potential downed-tree removal and road closures should severe flooding occur.

What to Do?

• Make sure catch basins are clear
• Keeping belongings off basement floors and other areas prone to flooding
• Clearing rain gutters and directing downspouts from foundations
• Be alert and avoid high water on roadways
• Stay clear of and report downed power lines and trees

Important Numbers in Case of Emergency

• In an emergency, call 911
• To report flooding or sewer backups, call the Albany Water Department Dispatch at (518) 434-5322
•  To report power outages and downed power lines, and determine area repair schedules, call National Grid at (800) 642-4272
•  To report downed trees, call the City of Albany Department of General Services at (518) 434-2489
•  For real-time weather updates and information, visit the National Weather Service.