NY Gov. Hochul links NY flash floods to climate change.
Gov. Hochul Warns New Yorkers to Brace for More Flooding: Climate Change is the “New Normal”
During a briefing on Saturday, Governor Kathy Hochul (R-NY) delivered a stark message to New Yorkers: be prepared for more events like the recent devastating flooding. She emphasized that these occurrences have become the “new normal” due to climate change.
The chaos began on Friday, as heavy rainfall pounded New York City and its surrounding areas, resulting in widespread flooding that brought the streets to a standstill and forced the shutdown of public transportation. The severity of the situation prompted the declaration of a state of emergency, as the subway system, streets, and even bus floors were severely impacted.
Climate Change Takes Center Stage
“This is unfortunately what we have to expect as the new normal,” Governor Hochul stated, acknowledging the role of climate change in these extreme weather events. She further highlighted the unprecedented nature of the flooding, with some New Yorkers witnessing a historic event that shattered previous records.
Despite the challenges, Governor Hochul assured the public that all subway lines, Metro-North below Southeast station, Long Island Rail Road, and Paratransit services were operational. However, she emphasized the need to protect both passengers and the infrastructure of the transportation systems, even as floodwaters poured in.
In New York City alone, a staggering eight inches of rain fell. Thankfully, while numerous rescues took place, there have been no reported fatalities.
Evacuations and State of Emergency
Due to the rising water levels, evacuations were carried out at NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull and one terminal at La Guardia International Airport. The state of emergency is expected to remain in effect for the next six days.
As New Yorkers grapple with the aftermath of this devastating flooding, Governor Hochul’s warning serves as a reminder that climate change is reshaping our world, and we must be prepared for more extreme weather events in the future.
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What specific measures did Governor Hochul suggest to mitigate the effects of future flooding, both at an individual and infrastructure level?
Of flooding in the future. Hochul emphasized that climate change is the “new normal” and called on residents to take necessary precautions to mitigate the impact of these extreme weather events.
Governor Hochul’s warning comes in the wake of devastating floods caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ida, which wreaked havoc in several states, including New York. The storm resulted in unprecedented rainfall and flash flooding, causing significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and claiming many lives.
Addressing the media, Hochul emphasized the urgent need for New Yorkers to recognize and adapt to the changing climate patterns. She stated, “The days of denying climate change are over. We cannot ignore the signs any longer. We must embrace the reality that climate change is happening and it is affecting our lives.”
Hochul’s statement illustrates a departure from the previous administration’s stance on climate change, signaling her commitment to tackling this pressing issue head-on. As climate change continues to worsen, it is crucial for political leaders to acknowledge its impact and develop strategies to safeguard their constituents.
The governor highlighted the importance of investing in resilient infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events. Hochul called for increased funding to strengthen aging infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and drainage systems. She stressed that taking preventive measures now would save lives and minimize damage in the future.
Furthermore, Hochul urged individuals to take steps to protect their homes and communities. She advised residents to elevate electrical systems and appliances, secure valuable possessions on higher floors, and avoid building in areas prone to flooding. She also encouraged the use of green infrastructure measures, such as rain gardens and permeable pavements, to absorb excess water and reduce the strain on drainage systems.
The governor acknowledged that the responsibility to combat climate change extends beyond individual actions and requires collective effort. She emphasized the need for statewide and national policies that prioritize renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By transitioning to cleaner sources of energy, New York can mitigate climate change’s long-term effects and reduce its vulnerability to extreme weather events.
Hochul’s warning serves as a wake-up call not only to New Yorkers but to individuals and leaders across the country. Climate change is not a distant threat; it is here and now. As weather patterns become increasingly volatile, the need to adapt and mitigate its effects is becoming urgent.
New Yorkers must heed Governor Hochul’s warning and take proactive measures to address climate change. It is essential to invest in resilient infrastructure and embrace sustainable practices that reduce our carbon footprint. By doing so, we can protect our homes, communities, and the well-being of future generations.
In conclusion, Governor Kathy Hochul’s message to brace for more flooding and recognize climate change as the “new normal” offers an important reminder of the urgent action required. New Yorkers must come together and take concrete steps to mitigate the impact of climate change to ensure a safer and more sustainable future.
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