• It is believed that the largest threats to our county are flash flooding and high winds resulting in the possibility of prolonged power outages and road closures


• For any emergency during the storm call 911 by landline or cell phone


• The Red Cross will be opening a shelter at the Taghkanic Fire Station on NYS Rte 82 today, Oct 29, 2012 at 1:00 PM. 211 can be called by phone for Columbia County shelter, dry ice and other storm related information


• When experiencing high winds stay inside if possible. If you must go out, use caution due to flying debris and downed electrical power lines. Always assume ANY DOWNED LINE IS ENERGIZED


• Do not use generators, gas grills or other combustible devices in your home


• If you reside alone, make arrangements with neighbors to check on each other if your area is experiencing a power outage


• Basic non electronic phones should work during power outages

At 1:15 p.m. today, the National Weather Services related that conditions remain the same for Hurricane Sandy. The storm is estimated to make landfall in Southern New Jersey later this afternoon with winds at 90 mph. It is expected to be the most severe between 4:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. Rain is still estimated to be in the 3-5 inch range, with the valley towns receiving 30-40 mph sustained winds and gusts of up to 50 mph. Elevations above 1500 feet will receive 40-50 mph winds with gusts of 75 mph. At this time the storm is 1000 miles in diameter.

Tidal flooding along the Hudson and its tributaries is expected. High tide today is at 2:23 p.m.

Central Hudson is still projecting widespread power outages.

All Greene County schools have cancelled any extra-curricular activities.

Greene County will declare a state of emergency at 5:00 p.m. which will remain in effect until further notice. No unnecessary travel is advised.