Orange County officials are warning residents about the chance of severe flooding tonight.

Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus says flooding and the possibility of washouts could be expected as scattered torrential rain and thunderstorms push through the region this evening.

“We have a major concern. In the next 24 hours, we are expecting three to six inches of rain,” Neuhaus says. “I’m worried about every area right now.”

Neuhaus says water rescue teams are mobilizing countywide and that the county is working closely with local governments to prepare for the storm. He says officials are shoring up construction projects and roadwork countywide that could also cause problems if washed away by flooding.

Neuhaus recommends residents take caution during the storm, especially those who live in flood-prone areas.

“I would be careful because you can have another problem tonight and you might not be able to get out,” says Neuhaus.

The official says last year’s deadly storm in Highland Falls made it difficult for rescuers to respond to calls for help in less rain than the area might get tonight.

“We have all hands on deck,” says Neuhaus. We are prepared.”

Orange County says residents can obtain storm-related updates on the Office of Emergency Management website at www.orangecountygov.com/345/Emergency-Management.