Orange County NY storm devastates Town of Highlands, West Point, surrounding areas
In the wake of a calamitous rainfall and ensuing destruction in Orange County, which claimed at least one life and obliterated critical infrastructure, New York State Senator James Skoufis called for the Federal Government to issue a Federal Emergency Management Agency declaration.
Gov. Kathy Hochul and Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus visited the Town of Highlands on Monday July 10, and declared a state of emergency in Orange County, issuing an executive order banning all vehicles and pedestrians from roads in the Town of Highland until 7:30 p.m. on Monday, July 10.
State, County and local officials are grappling with the extensive damage. The full scope of the impact, particularly on public and private property, is expected to take several weeks to ascertain.
“Orange County was devastated by yesterday’s unprecedented rainfall and subsequent destruction.” Senator Skoufis stated. “At least one life was lost, critical infrastructure was completely destroyed, and the full extent of damage to public and private property will take many weeks to fully assess. We are grateful to the Governor’s office and the state’s coordinated emergency response team for their hands-on support and rescue efforts.
“I am calling on the federal government to immediately issue a FEMA Major Disaster Declaration. Additionally, I urge the Governor to sign my bill, S.5201, requiring insurance companies to more promptly respond to disaster-related property claims.
“Taken together, these actions will have the most direct and urgent impact on our hardest-hit communities. Our constituents across the county are reeling, and government agencies at every level must proactively and efficiently deliver relief.
“To the family of the Fort Montgomery resident who lost her life last night, and to the many families waking up to a life changed by last night’s devastation, our hearts go out and we are here for you.”