MAN THE RAINCOATS

NY Declares State of Emergency as Hurricane Henri Looms

Hurricane Henri is expected to make landfall on New York’s Long Island or southern New England on Sunday.

Northeast states are about to get what’s likely their worst weather this year, and it isn’t a snowstorm. Forecasters upgraded Tropical Storm Henri to Hurricane Henri on Saturday, predicting that it will make landfall on New York’s Long Island or southern New England, most likely Connecticut, on Sunday. Outgoing New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency for Long Island, New York City, the Hudson Valley, and the Capital District, activating 500 National Guard troops. He urged people on Fire Island, a popular vacation destination, to evacuate immediately and said residents in affected areas should stock up on supplies. Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul, who will become governor on Tuesday, has been briefed, Cuomo said.

Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker activated about 1,000 members of the National Guard for rescues and clean-up. He hasn’t, however, called for any evacuations. “We all need to take this storm extremely seriously,” Baker said at a press conference, per The New York Times. “The simple point here is, we really would like everybody to be off the road at the height of this storm.” The state is expected to face a storm surge and no power for almost 300,000 homes.

It follows Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont, who also declared a state of emergency and activated at least 200 members of the state’s National Guard. “It’s a good idea for everyone to be prepared and expect to shelter in place by Sunday afternoon through at least Monday morning,” Lamont said.