In the wake of record rainfall and catastrophic flash flooding that battered Suffolk County on August 18-19, President Joe Biden has issued a federal emergency declaration to facilitate disaster relief efforts. Governor Kathy Hochul, who secured the emergency declaration, announced that it would unlock critical federal assistance to aid in the recovery of communities ravaged by the unprecedented storm, which the National Weather Service labeled a 1-in-1,000-year event.
The declaration, which authorizes the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA to provide emergency protective measures, is designed to safeguard vital infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and utilities, that suffered extensive damage. Suffolk County reported over 2,400 incidents of damage to roads and dams, with 72 homes sustaining major damage. The total financial impact is estimated to reach up to $100 million.
Governor Hochul expressed gratitude for the federal support, acknowledging the efforts of state disaster recovery teams who worked tirelessly to assess the damage and secure the declaration. Hochul also announced an emergency repair program for homeowners in Nassau and Suffolk counties, offering grants of up to $50,000 for essential repairs not covered by insurance. This program will be administered locally to assist affected residents with insurance claims and the repair process.
Meanwhile, Attorney General Letitia James issued a stern warning to businesses in Suffolk County, emphasizing that New York’s price gouging laws will be strictly enforced. James urged residents to report any instances of businesses exploiting the disaster by raising prices on essential goods and services. Violators could face penalties of up to $25,000 per infraction.
The storm’s impact was devastating, with multiple swiftwater rescues, dam failures, and widespread road closures. The Town of Brookhaven was particularly hard-hit, with the complete failure of the Mill Pond Dam displacing six families. Stony Brook University was forced to cancel move-in day due to severe infrastructure damage, and sinkholes were reported in Commack and East Setauket. In total, more than 2,000 residents and businesses experienced flood damage.
As Suffolk County residents begin the arduous process of recovery, federal and state officials continue to work together to assess the damage and pursue additional federal disaster relief, including low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Department of Financial Services will deploy staff to the affected areas to provide insurance assistance to residents and businesses.
