Storm Aftermath Closes Putnam County

SOUTHEAST, NY — Putnam County has declared a state of emergency, to be in effect for a period not to exceed 5 days.

With the exception of essential services, all Putnam County government offices are closed Wednesday.

Almost the entire county lost power as Tropical Storm Isaias tore through the Hudson Valley Tuesday. Crews worked through the afternoon and overnight making downed wires safe, removing thousands of downed trees, limbs, poles and wires from roads, and beginning to restore service.

"While the storm has left our area, the impact of Isaias have left the majority of our residents without power and many roadways impassable," said County Executive MaryEllen Odell. "In addition many of our government facilities are without power."

This includes the county's public transportation system which includes the Croton Falls Commuters and fixed route PART System.

The east side of the county also has no train service. The Harlem Line is only operating between New York City and North White Plains due to the storm. The Hudson Line is operating on a weekend schedule.

NYSEG and Central Hudson continue to work on restoration efforts. As of 12:20 p.m. Wednesday, NYSEG reported about 27,000 customers out; Central Hudson reported 3,647 out.

NYSEG is providing ice, dry ice and water.

NYSEG is working with local towns and villages to provide water and wet ice for distribution. Residents should contact their local municipality for distribution information. Each municipality will establish their own location and schedule.

To assist the public the County has established two comfort stations:

• Friendship Center of Philipstown (former Butterfield Hospital site). 1756 NY-9D, Cold Spring NY
• Knights of Columbus, 10 Fair St, Carmel NY.

Both facilities are open from 10 AM until 4 PM. Residents can use the facilities to cool down and recharge their phones and other electronic equipment.

Residents are reminded to use 9-1-1 for emergency calls only.

At about 11:30 a.m., the utility company reported its website had crashed.