As if a pandemic and assorted other economic woes weren’t enough, Hudson Valley residents found themselves bracing this week for the first potentially severe weather of the summer season. Haven’t we had enough.
At deadline here, there was lots of rain and wind in the forecast, as Tropical Storm Isaias was making its way along the Eastern seaboard.

Total rainfall of 1-4 inches of rain was expected. Softened soil conditions as a result of the heavy rain, coupled with gusty winds, have the potential to bring down trees and limbs, warns New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) causing damage to overhead power lines and other electrical equipment.

Residents can prepare for severe weather in the following way:

• Charging all electronic devices, including cell phones and radios.
• Keeping handy a flashlight and fresh batteries;
• Having a battery-powered radio to remain informed of restoration efforts;
• Confirming adequate packaged or canned foods that require no refrigeration or cooking;
• Avoiding opening a refrigerator unnecessarily during outages, so that food lasts longer;
• Having a non-electric can opener;
• Keeping an emergency supply of bottled water on hand for drinking and washing; and
• Filling bathtubs with water as added reserves.
Once the storm hits, residents are warned to stay at least 30 feet from any downed power line. Remember that lines may be entangled and hidden in fallen trees. Assume all downed lines are live;
• Follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions on the use of emergency generators, and be sure to shut off the main breaker when in use and operate the units outdoors;
• Operate cars and motor vehicles outdoors only, and never inside the garage; and
• Avoid travel along roadways as hazardous conditions may cause driving accidents, including those involving utility poles which may cause power interruptions

If you experience a power outage, contact your local utility: NYSEG: 800-572-1131 or Central Hudson: 800-527-2714 or visit CentralHudson.com.