Nor’easter Preparation & Flood Safety for Westchester Homeowners

Updated September 25, 2026

As another nor’easter approaches our area, homeowners throughout Westchester County should take a few precautions to protect their homes and families.

This is especially important for residents in New Rochelle, Pelham, Mamaroneck, Rye, White Plains and other Sound Shore communities, as well as anyone living near Long Island Sound, rivers, streams, ponds, drainage areas or other low-lying locations.

Heavy rain does not have to fall directly along the Sound to cause problems. Flash flooding can develop quickly near waterways and in areas where storm drains become overwhelmed.

Pay Particular Attention if You Live Near Water

Westchester has several areas with a history of flooding. Homeowners near the Mamaroneck River, Hutchinson River, Blind Brook and other streams and waterways should closely monitor changing weather conditions.

Residents along Long Island Sound also need to pay attention to coastal flooding, particularly when strong onshore winds coincide with high tides.

Even if your property has never flooded before, intense rainfall can overwhelm storm drains and create localized or flash flooding in a short period of time.

Before the Storm: Secure Your Property

• Bring patio furniture, umbrellas, decorations and other lightweight outdoor items inside.
• Secure grills, trash cans and anything that could become airborne during strong winds.
• Check your property for weakened or dead tree limbs.
• Clear leaves and debris from gutters, downspouts and exterior drains.
• Make sure downspouts are directing water away from your foundation.
• If you have a basement sump pump, test it before the heavy rain begins.
• If you have a battery backup for your sump pump, make sure it is charged and operating properly.

Prepare for Possible Power Outages

• Charge cell phones, tablets and portable battery packs.
• Have flashlights and fresh batteries available.
• Keep drinking water and non-perishable food available.
• Know how to report an electrical outage to your utility provider.
• Never approach a downed power line. Always assume it is energized.
• Portable generators should never be operated inside a house, basement, garage or other enclosed space.

Flash Flooding Can Develop Quickly

Flash flooding is particularly dangerous because conditions can change rapidly. A roadway that appears passable can be deeper than it looks or may have been damaged beneath the water.

Never attempt to drive or walk through a flooded roadway. Turn around and find another route.

If local officials issue an evacuation order or tell residents to move vehicles from a flood-prone area, follow those instructions promptly.

What Should You Do if Your Basement Floods?

First, think about electrical safety. Do not walk into standing water if electrical outlets, appliances, your electrical panel or other equipment may have been exposed to water.

If you cannot safely shut off electricity from a dry location, contact the fire department, utility company or a qualified electrician for guidance.

Once the area is safe:

1. Photograph and video the damage before cleanup. Take wide-angle photographs as well as close-ups showing water lines, damaged walls, flooring, appliances, furniture and personal property.
2. Contact your insurance company. Ask what documentation they need before damaged materials are removed.
3. Remove water safely. If there has been significant flooding and the ground outside the home remains saturated, do not necessarily pump a severely flooded basement completely dry all at once. Outside water pressure can potentially damage foundation walls. Seek professional advice when dealing with major flooding.
4. Begin drying the area as soon as it is safe. Use dehumidifiers, ventilation and appropriate water-removal equipment.
5. Remove materials that cannot be properly dried. Flood-soaked carpeting, padding, drywall, insulation and upholstered materials may need to be discarded.
6. Watch for mold. Wet materials should be cleaned and dried as quickly as possible. Mold can begin developing rapidly following water damage.

Before Throwing Damaged Property Away

Take photographs and videos first whenever it is safe to do so. Photograph appliance model and serial numbers and keep receipts for cleanup, drying equipment, repairs and replacement items.

If your insurer asks you to preserve samples of damaged flooring, carpet or other materials, follow their instructions.

Items that present an immediate health hazard should not be kept simply for an insurance inspection.

Mold After a Flood

The CDC recommends drying wet materials as quickly as possible, ideally within approximately 24 to 48 hours, to help reduce mold growth.

When cleaning areas affected by mold or contaminated floodwater, appropriate protective equipment may include gloves, eye protection, protective footwear and an N95 respirator.

People with asthma, significant allergies, underlying lung conditions or compromised immune systems should be particularly cautious around mold and may need professional assistance.

Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners.

Be Careful Hiring Contractors After a Storm

Major storms often bring an increase in emergency repair companies and door-to-door contractors.

Before hiring someone for water removal, mold remediation, roofing, tree work or home repairs:

• Verify that the contractor is properly licensed when a Westchester County license is required.
• Ask for proof of insurance.
• Get the scope of work and price in writing.
• Be cautious about large cash payments or demands for full payment before work begins.
• Keep copies of estimates, contracts, invoices and receipts.

Westchester Storm & Flood Resources

These official resources can be helpful before or after a storm:

• National Weather Service – New York Office
  Current weather forecasts, watches, warnings and coastal flood information.
  National Weather Service – New York
• New York State Flood Safety
  Preparedness, evacuation and flood-recovery information.
  New York State Flood Safety
• CDC Flood and Mold Cleanup Guidance
  Health and safety information for cleaning and drying a flooded home.
  CDC Mold Cleanup Guidance
• FEMA / National Flood Insurance Program
  Information about documenting flood damage, insurance claims and recovery.
  FloodSmart Flood Recovery Resources
• American Red Cross – Disaster Cleanup
  Information about safely cleaning a home following flooding or storm damage.
  American Red Cross Disaster Cleanup
• Westchester County Contractor License Search
  Check whether a home improvement contractor is licensed to work in Westchester County.
  Westchester County Contractor License Search
• New Rochelle Flood Information
  Local flood preparedness information for New Rochelle residents.
  City of New Rochelle Flood Information
• City of Rye Flood Information
  Local information including Blind Brook and other flood-related resources.
  City of Rye Flood Information

One Last Tip: Check on Your Neighbors

Once conditions are safe, check on elderly neighbors and anyone who may need assistance. A little preparation and communication can make a significant difference during a major storm.

Stay safe, Westchester.

Tom Roberts | RealtorTom
William Raveis Real Estate
Serving homeowners and buyers throughout Westchester County

This article is provided for general informational purposes. Conditions can change quickly. Always follow instructions from local emergency officials, your utility company, the National Weather Service and other appropriate authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Westchester areas should pay particular attention to flooding?

Homes along Long Island Sound and properties near rivers, streams, ponds, storm drains and low-lying areas should monitor conditions closely. This includes areas around the Mamaroneck River, Hutchinson River, Blind Brook and other Westchester waterways.

What should I do if my basement starts flooding?

Do not enter standing water when electricity could be present. If it is safe, document the damage with photos and video, contact your insurance company and begin water removal and drying. Significant basement flooding may require professional assistance.

Should I pump all the water out of a flooded basement immediately?

Not necessarily. When outside groundwater remains high, removing a large amount of basement water too quickly can create pressure against foundation walls. New York State and disaster-recovery organizations recommend gradual removal in some severe flooding situations. Seek professional guidance if significant water is present.

How quickly should a flooded basement be dried?

The CDC recommends cleaning and drying wet materials as quickly as possible, ideally within 24 to 48 hours, to help prevent mold growth.

What should I photograph after storm or flood damage?

Take wide and close-up photographs and video of the affected rooms, water lines, walls, floors, furniture, personal belongings and damaged appliances. Photograph appliance model and serial numbers and keep repair and cleanup receipts.

How can I check a contractor after a Westchester storm?

Westchester County maintains an online license search for home improvement contractors. Homeowners should also request proof of insurance, obtain written estimates and contracts, and be cautious about demands for large advance payments.