Mayor Walsh Updates on City Preparations for Potential Severe Storms
Published on July 10, 2024
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh updated the Syracuse community today on preparations across City of Syracuse departments for potential extreme weather this afternoon. The City of Syracuse will close administrative offices beginning at 2:30 p.m. The National Weather Service has issued Hazardous Weather Conditions warnings. A tornado watch was also issued around noon Wednesday. The alerts call for excessive rainfall in Central New York, which could trigger flash flooding. Severe weather including thunderstorms, strong winds and hail are possible. In addition to flash flooding, power outages, downed trees and infrastructure damage could occur.
The Department of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs has canceled all programming scheduled for July 10 beginning at 2 p.m. All field permits for the afternoon and evening have also been revoked to ensure the safety of our constituents and visitors.
"The weather impact of Hurricane Beryl has the potential to be significant in Syracuse, and our top priority is to ensure the well-being of everyone in our city,” said Mayor Walsh. “Please take all necessary precautions and stay informed as we navigate this storm together."
City Services and Assistance
Emergency Services: Syracuse Police and Fire Departments are fully operational and responding to emergencies. Residents should dial 911 for immediate assistance or to report dangerous conditions.
Travel: The City cautions against driving or walking on flooded streets. Those walking could be unaware of manhole covers/grates that have moved by rushing water, leaving open holes. Driving through flooded streets can quickly overwhelm vehicles and pose additional hazards.
Shelters: The City of Syracuse has been in contact with outreach partners to ensure the safety of all residents. Housing vulnerable seeking refuge from the storm are directed to the Rescue Mission, located at 122 Dickerson St., and Catholic Charities Hospitality Center, located at 262 E. Onondaga St.
The City of Syracuse has also opened safety shelters at four Parks locations from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.:
- Cecile Community Center at 174 W. Seneca Turnpike
- Magnarelli Community Center at 2308 Grant Boulevard
- Wilson Park Community Center 1117 South McBride Street
- Seals Community Center at 300 W Borden Avenue
Sewer blockages: Avoid attempting to clear storm drains when flooded. Instead, call dispatch (315-448-8361) and a member of the Department of Public Works will respond.
Downed trees: Downed trees and limbs should be reported to Cityline at 315-448-CITY(2489), or through the SYRCityline app. Do not touch branches and trees down on the ground with wires on or under them. Assume that any wire that is down on a tree or branch can electrocute someone if branches are touched. In case of emergency, call 911.
Downed power lines: Avoid power lines, even if they are not arcing or sparking. Even where power appears to be out, the lines may still be energized. Downed phone and cable wires may also be energized if they come into contact with uninsulated wires. Treat all wires as live, regardless of what type you think they are, and call 911 to report any issues.
Trash and recycling setouts: Please avoid setting trash carts and recycling bins out tonight. If your trash cart is set out, please ensure all trash is bagged and the lid is closed. Alternatives are to put them out as close to 6 a.m. as possible on Thursday, July 11, or hold your setouts until next week.
Contact Information
Emergencies: 911
National Grid: (800) 642-4272
American Red Cross: (315) 234-2200