Gov. Kathy Hochul is declaring a State of Emergency in light of heavy flooding expected Thursday, July 31, until Friday, Aug. 1.

“I will be declaring a State of Emergency for New York City and the surrounding counties. Heavy rain and potential flooding are expected to affect the evening commute,” the governor said on Thursday. “Employers are encouraged to dismiss employees early. Continue to monitor your local forecasts, and stay safe.”

She later added in part, “Be alert. It’s going to be a very difficult and challenging commute going home. So, everybody, be smart, be safe, and we’ll get through this.”

The news comes after the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a flood watch for July 31, starting at 2:14 a.m. until Aug. 1 at 8 a.m., with officials saying flooding caused by excessive

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