Heavy rain can overwhelm drains and sewers, causing water to rise quickly in streets, basements, and other low places.
Core actions
- Know where you can go above ground If you live in a basement, move early when flooding is forecast or warned.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater Stay away from downed wires and flooded electrical equipment.
- Keep exits clear and essentials ready Follow local alerts; report damage to 311 after you are safe.
- Trapped by rising water or facing immediate danger? Call 911.
Get Ready
- Learn what to do before and after flooding NYC Emergency Management Flood safety, basement precautions, and recovery steps.
- Check rainfall flooding risks NYC DEP Links to stormwater flood maps and ways to protect your home. Maps are planning tools, not live warnings.
- Understand flood insurance and home protection FloodHelpNY A nonprofit resource: flood risk, separate flood insurance, and home improvements. Program eligibility varies. Website in nine languages.
- Explore ways to keep water out Blue Dots A private NYC platform: property improvements and local providers. Work may cost money; compare providers independently.
- Find practical rainfall preparation steps Rainfall Ready NYC From DEP. Prepare drains, property, and household plans before intense rain.
When Something Happens
- See water levels at nearby flood sensors FloodNet NYC Near-real-time readings at sensor locations. Coverage is limited; a blank map does not mean a street is safe.
- Clean up safely after a flood NYC Health Safe cleanup, food and water safety, and steps to reduce mold.
- Get guidance on mold and dampness NYC Health Preventing and removing mold. Tenants can report unresolved conditions through 311. Translated mold guide.
- Report a sewer backup NYC311 Report sewage flooding in a building. Call 911 if floodwater creates immediate danger.
- Get help if you cannot return home Back Home NYC Help for tenants displaced by emergencies or vacate orders. Call 212-389-6670.