Governor declares state of emergency in anticipation of storm

PHOTOGRAPHER: David Lombardo

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In anticipation of Hurricane Sandy, Gov. Andrew Cuomo has declared a state of emergency.

The declaration mobilizes resources for local governments that would otherwise be restricted to the state and suspends regulations that might impede a rapid response to an emergency. In preparation of the storm, the state’s Emergency Operations Center in Albany will operate 24 hours a day and state and local agencies are now planning a cooperative response effort.

“As we prepare for the possibility of Hurricane Sandy hitting New York State, I am activating all levels of state government to prepare for any potential impacts,” Cuomo said in a statement. “We are working with federal and local partners to follow storm developments and organize a coordinated response plan. With unpredictable weather conditions, we are taking the greatest precautions – especially after our experience from last year’s storms. I urge New Yorkers to plan for hurricane conditions and follow news reports to stay updated on the storm’s progress.”

Additionally, the governor has asked President Barack Obama for a pre-landfall disaster declaration, which would allow the state access to federal funds and FEMA resources to prepare for the weather.