Village officials in Port Chester are preparing for a weekend nor’easter expected to bring heavy rain, coastal flooding and strong winds to the region.
The storm is forecast to impact the area from Friday through Sunday, with wind gusts that could reach 40 to 50 mph in some locations.
Communities along the Long Island Sound, including Port Chester, are expected to feel the storm's effects more than inland areas.
Village Manager Stuart Rabin says crews have already taken steps to reduce flooding risks ahead of the storm.
"We've just completed about 200 catch basin cleanings ... and we've also cleaned out a larger stormwater artery, which is the Bulkley Drain," Rabin said.
The preparations come less than two weeks after severe flash flooding impacted parts of the tri-state area, including Port Chester.
Village officials say rainfall rates during the Sept. 13 storm reached nearly 3 inches per hour at times.
Residents remain concerned about the possibility of another significant weather event.
"I am a little worried because I don't know how much rain is going to be falling because it could be bad like it was two weeks ago," said Port Chester resident Lasondra Byrd.
Others in the community said they believe increasingly frequent severe weather events are making storm preparation more important, and that officials are doing their best.
"My concerns are that this wild and crazy weather is happening more frequently," said Denise Cypher, who works in Port Chester. "It's scary the way it happens so suddenly."
Officials are urging residents to prepare before conditions worsen by stocking up on necessities, securing loose outdoor items and avoiding unnecessary travel during the storm.
The village says it will continue monitoring conditions throughout the weekend.