| USA Today Network
Tips for planning ahead and staying safe during flooding
Mark Iannucci, director of fire services for Westchester County Department of Emergency Services, shares tips to prepare and plan ahead for flooding. [ Tania Savayan / lohud ]
Flood warnings remain in effect across parts of western New York as recent heavy rainfall continues to push rivers and creeks above flood stage, according to the National Weather Service.
Minor flooding is ongoing along Cayuga Creek near Lancaster, where water levels crested above 9.7 feet overnight and are expected to fall below flood stage later Wednesday. The Genesee River at Avon is also forecast to briefly exceed flood stage before receding.
In the Buffalo area, moderate flooding is expected along Tonawanda Creek at Batavia and Buffalo Creek at Gardenville, where rising water levels could inundate roads and impact some homes and businesses.
Rochester area waterways impacted
Flooding is occurring or expected along several waterways in the Rochester region, including Irondequoit Creek, Honeoye Creek and Oatka Creek.
Low-lying areas, parks and some roadways have already been affected, particularly near Irondequoit Creek, where water levels are approaching historic levels. Additional minor flooding is possible through Wednesday as creeks remain elevated.
Central New York rivers rising
In central New York, several rivers are forecast to reach minor to moderate flood stages.
The Tioughnioga River at Cortland and the Chenango River at Sherburne could cause localized flooding and some road closures. Cayuga Lake at Ithaca is also expected to rise above flood stage, potentially impacting shoreline areas and nearby roads.
Eastern New York facing moderate flooding
Farther east, flooding concerns continue along the Mohawk River at Little Falls and West Canada Creek at Hinckley and Kast Bridge.
Moderate flooding in these areas may impact farmland, low-lying infrastructure and nearby communities, with water levels expected to remain elevated into Thursday.
Safety reminders for residents
Officials urge residents to avoid flooded roadways and use caution near rivers and creeks, especially at night when hazards are harder to see.
Drivers are reminded: “Turn around, don’t drown,” as most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles.
Additional updates are expected as conditions evolve throughout the day.
