Updated Tuesday, Feb. 9, at 4:31 p.m.
The coastal flooding that filled streets across parts of the Rockaways, Broad Channel and Howard Beach with water yesterday has mostly dissipated, according to Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder‘s office, but a coastal flood advisory is set to take effect Tuesday night.
The coastal flood warning was lifted at 11 a.m. Tuesday morning, with the advisory to take effect during the evening high tide, from 8 to 11 p.m.
“Our reports show some residual flooding along the Rockaway peninsula,” Goldfeder’s office said. “Most of the water seems to have receded.”
Streets became flooded because the tides have been roughly 2 feet above astronomical tides, there have been strong winds out of the north, and there has been an elevated level of ground saturation due to last weekend’s storm.
“This morning, coastal areas in our city experienced flooding during the high tide,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “From clearing storm drains to salting roads that could turn icy, we’re taking all necessary steps to respond to the impacts of this flooding. We are also taking the long-term steps needed to protect our coastal areas through our $20 billion investment in climate resiliency,”
Goldfeder had been in touch with the presidents of all the area’s major civic associations, disseminating important information as it came in, trying to keep the communities as up to date as possible on the flooding.
“I’ve been speaking with the president of every major civic association in the area all day,” Goldfeder said. “The truth is this is happening because we are surrounded by water. I don’t think there is anything we can do or build that can prevent it from happening. We just have to be vigilant to be prepared for when it happens again.”
Goldfeder’s office mentioned that there was some damage done by the flooding, including reports of flooded basements and damaged vehicles.
“My district has several low-lying neighborhoods — including Hamilton Beach, Howard Beach, Broad Channel and many parts of Rockaway — that unfortunately are vulnerable to floods and often fall victim to the high tides.,” said Senator Joseph Addabbo. “When this happens, residents know all too well that these lunar tides can turn dangerous quickly. I sympathize with residents who are affected by flooding like we’ve witnessed this week. The flooding by one of my district offices, located in Old Howard Beach, caused my staff to deal with water rising sometimes to several feet above street level. My office has been in constant contact with DEP, OEM and the Mayor’s office to continue monitoring the situation. In these instances, it is important to remember that my office is always a resource for anyone experiencing issues with flooding, and I urge constituents to never hesitate to contact me for assistance.”
