County Executive Bello urges Monroe County residents to take precautions as severe thunderstorms threaten the area

Monroe County, New York – Monroe County officials are urging residents to prepare for dangerous weather after the National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for parts of the county, with the possibility of isolated tornadoes in the area.

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and the Office of Emergency Management are asking people to take the threat seriously and make safety a priority while the storms move through the region. Officials said severe thunderstorms can create hazardous conditions quickly, including strong winds, power outages and dangerous travel conditions.

During the warning, the Monroe County Office of Emergency Management will continue monitoring weather conditions and sharing information from the U.S. National Weather Service in Buffalo. Residents are encouraged to remain alert and follow official updates as conditions develop.

One of the main recommendations from county officials is to avoid unnecessary travel during the storms. Staying off the roads can reduce the risk to residents and also give emergency responders and utility crews more room to reach areas affected by storm damage.

Drivers who do need to travel should be especially careful around intersections. If a traffic signal is dark because of a power outage, motorists should treat the intersection as a four-way stop and proceed only when it is safe.

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Officials are also warning residents to stay away from any downed power lines. Even if a line appears inactive, it could still be carrying electricity and should not be touched.

Power outages are another concern during severe weather. Residents are encouraged to have basic emergency supplies available, including food, water, flashlights, firewood and needed medications. People who depend on electrically powered medical equipment should make alternative arrangements in case the electricity goes out.

Generators can provide important backup power, but they must be used safely. County officials reminded residents that generators should operate outdoors or be properly ventilated outdoors to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide from building up inside a home.

Bello and emergency management officials are also asking residents to check on elderly friends, relatives and neighbors who may need additional assistance during the storms or a possible outage. Candles should never be left unattended, particularly during an emergency when people may be moving around in the dark.

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Households with animals should bring pets indoors before conditions worsen. Residents should also secure garbage totes, patio furniture and other outdoor objects that could be blown around by strong winds.

County officials say residents should continue watching local news stations and official social media channels for the latest information. As the weather situation changes, emergency management agencies will provide additional updates and recommendations to help residents remain safe.