The Lower East Side of Manhattan is a historically low-lying area, and as such, it is vulnerable to flooding from hurricanes. The area has been hit by several hurricanes in the past, including the following:
1821 Hurricane: This hurricane made landfall in New York City as a Category 1 storm, causing widespread flooding in the Lower East Side. The storm surge reached 13 feet, inundating wharves and causing the East River to meet the Hudson River across the Lower East Side as far north as Canal Street.
1938 New England Hurricane: This hurricane made landfall in Long Island as a Category 3 storm, causing extensive damage in the Lower East Side. The storm surge reached 10 feet, flooding homes and businesses.
2012 Hurricane Sandy: This hurricane made landfall in New Jersey as a Category 1 storm, but its impact was amplified by a nor’easter. The storm surge reached 14 feet in the Lower East Side, causing widespread flooding and damage.
The Lower East Side is still vulnerable to hurricanes, and it is important to be prepared in case one strikes. Here are some things you can do to prepare for a hurricane:
Know your evacuation zone. The City of New York has a hurricane evacuation plan that divides the city into evacuation zones. If you live in an evacuation zone, you will need to evacuate if a hurricane warning is issued. https://maps.nyc.gov/hurricane/
Make a plan for your pets. If you have to evacuate, make sure you have a plan for your pets. You can either take them with you or find a pet-friendly hotel or shelter. https://www.nyc.gov/assets/em/downloads/pdf/pets_english.pdf
Stock up on supplies. Make sure you have enough food, water, and other supplies to last for several days. You should also have a first-aid kit and a flashlight.
Secure your home. Bring loose objects inside and board up windows. You should also turn off the water, gas, and electricity.
If a hurricane warning is issued for your area, it is important to evacuate immediately. Do not wait until the last minute. Here are some things to do when evacuating:
Listen to the radio or TV for updates. The National Weather Service will provide regular updates on the hurricane.
Follow the instructions of local officials. They will have the best information on where to evacuate and what to do.
Take your important documents with you. This includes your passport, birth certificate, and insurance papers.
Leave early. The roads will be crowded, so it is important to leave early to avoid traffic.
If you cannot evacuate, it is important to stay safe in your home. Here are some things you can do to stay safe:
Stay indoors. Do not go outside unless it is absolutely necessary.
Close all windows and doors. This will help to keep out the wind and rain.
Turn off the water, gas, and electricity. This will help to prevent fires and other hazards.
Have a battery-powered radio or TV so you can listen to updates.
Stay informed about the situation. Listen to the radio or TV for updates on the hurricane.
After a hurricane, it is important to be patient and help your neighbors. Here are some things you can do to help:
Check on your neighbors. Make sure they are safe and have what they need.
Help with clean-up efforts. There will be a lot of debris to clean up after a hurricane.
Be patient. It will take time to recover from a hurricane.
