Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau has issued a Flash Flood Warning that is effective through 2:15 PM this afternoon for Southeastern Sullivan County. Locations in the warning include but are not limited to Bloomingburg, Fallsburg, Hartwood, Haven, Highview, Phillipsport, Rock Hill, Thompsonville, Woodbourne, Woodridge, and Wurtsboro.

Fanslau said, "The National Weather Service (NSW) has issued a Flash Flood Warning in Sullivan County. At 10:05 AM, the National Weather Service Doppler radar estimates and rain gage reports indicated excessive rainfall over the warned area. Rainfall so far has been one and a half to 3 inches. Another 1 to 2 inches is possible before ending early this afternoon. Rapid flooding of streams, creeks, and poor drainage areas is likely in and near these locations.

When you can do so safely, please report flooding to the NSW by calling toll free at 1-877-633-6772, or by email at bgm.stormreport@noaa.gov

Most flood deaths occur in automobiles. Never drive your vehicle into areas where the water covers the roadway. Flood waters are usually deeper than they appear. Just one foot of flowing water is powerful enough to sweep vehicles off the road. When encountering flooded roads make the smart choice - turn around -don't drown.

A flash flood warning means that flooding is imminent or occurring. If you are in the warning area move to higher ground immediately. Residents living along streams and creeks should take immediate precautions to protect life and property. Do not attempt to cross swiftly flowing waters or waters of unknown depth by foot or by automobile.

I strongly urge any resident who lives near a stream, creek or river to be prepared and alert as this storm progresses, and to take preventative measures to protect their property through sandbags, etc. Outdoor, moveable property should be secured, and indoor property should be put up in case of flooding in the home. Furthermore, in case of emergency, all residents in these areas should make preparations to vacate their home if conditions warrant, and are strongly urged to comply with any and all reasonable requests from law enforcement or emergency responders during an emergency.

County residents, particularly those in flood-prone areas, are also urged to have enough flashlights and extra batteries, canned goods and bottled water for 48 hours, in case of power outage or emergency. Residents are encouraged to make arrangements to check on elderly neighbors, and arrange for pets to be housed either inside, or with proper shelter.

During the storm all County residents are urged to remain indoors and off roadways whenever possible. If residents must drive, they are advised to exercise extreme caution when driving through this storm, and to pay special attention not to drive through pooling or standing water. If there are flood conditions on a roadway, please do not travel through the water.

Sullivan County officials will be in contact with all towns, village and fire departments in the flood-prone areas, to ensure all precautionary measures are being taken, and implementing contingency plans in case of flooding. County officials will remain in contact with these towns, village and volunteer first-responders throughout the storm, as they monitor the situations in their own communities.