The record rainfall and subsequent flash flooding in Orange and Rockland counties earlier this month damaged or destroyed critical infrastructure, homes, and businesses and, very sadly, claimed a young woman’s life as she tried to save her dog from the furiously rushing waters.

In the midst of the crisis our first responders, many of whom are volunteers, rescued stranded motorists and homeowners — heroic efforts that have earned our gratitude, yet again, for ensuring that Nature’s worst will be met with our community’s best.

Cleanup efforts began immediately after the storms, and recovery and repair will take months or even years. The cost will be enormous. That is why I have joined my colleagues in government to call on President Biden to swiftly to approve a major disaster declaration and enable the federal government to provide substantial resources to help us.

If you or your business have incurred flood-related damage, it is important that you document what happened so that New York can prove to the federal government that we have sustained at least $36 million in total loss. My friend and colleague, Senator James Skoufis, has set up a portal on his official website, skoufis.nysenate.gov, where you can easily fill out a form to provide details regarding your flood-related losses. My office will also be happy to assist you at (845) 544-7551.

I will continue to coordinate my office’s efforts with those of local, state, and federal leaders to ensure that our community is restored as fully as possible following this early-July weather disaster. As we move forward, I will be evaluating our infrastructure to see how we can mitigate flooding of our inland waterways and fortify such critical elements as roads and bridges.

Please keep in touch with me and my staff regarding any concerns you may have as recovery proceeds. As always, thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you.