New York Governor Kathy Hochul has issued the following statement on the expected heavy rainfall expected to impact the state starting Friday and continuing throughout next week, which may pose a safety risk to some residents.

"Nearly every region across the State will experience thunderstorms or heavy rainfall over the coming days, putting many communities at risk of isolated flash floods. Localized flooding is possible in the New York City, Long Island, Mid-Hudson and Southern Tier regions. Upstate regions including the Capital Region, North Country, Mohawk Valley and Central New York are also at risk for excessive rainfall and isolated flash floods. State personnel are constantly monitoring forecasts and I encourage all New Yorkers to take responsible precautions: be aware of local forecasts, sign up for emergency alerts, monitor any road closures and prepare a bag of supplies in the unlikely event that a rapid evacuation is needed."