ALBANY, N.Y. — Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a State of Emergency in 32 counties across New York as the state grapples with the aftermath of severe overnight thunderstorms and braces for a multi-day heatwave with dangerously high temperatures.

The storms brought torrential rain, damaging winds, and widespread power outages. As of Monday afternoon, approximately 50,000 customers were without power statewide. Communities in Central New York, the Southern Tier, and the North Country were among the hardest hit — with reports of downed trees, structural damage, and roads submerged due to flash flooding.

“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of life during last night’s storms,” Hochul said in a statement. “My administration has been in touch with local officials and emergency personnel are already on the ground providing support. I urge all New Yorkers to stay weather aware and take precautions as extreme heat and severe weather continue.”

Rainfall rates reached up to two inches per hour overnight, with additional rainfall of 2 to 4 inches possible in the coming days. Flash flood warnings remain in effect across parts of Central New York, the Southern Tier, and the Mid-Hudson region — especially in areas already saturated from recent rainfall.

Meanwhile, oppressive heat is expected to settle in statewide, with “feels-like” temperatures expected to top 100 degrees through Wednesday. Officials are urging residents to limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable neighbors.

Counties Under State of Emergency Include:

Albany, Bronx, Broome, Chenango, Clinton, Columbia, Cortland, Delaware, Dutchess, Essex, Greene, Kings, Madison, Nassau, New York, Oneida, Onondaga, Orange, Otsego, Putnam, Queens, Rensselaer, Richmond, Rockland, Saratoga, Schenectady, Suffolk, Tioga, Ulster, Warren, Washington, and Westchester.

State Response Underway:

The State Emergency Operations Center has been activated and is in Enhanced Monitoring Mode.

Emergency supplies such as light towers, generators, and water pumps have been deployed to impacted areas, including Oneida County.

The Office of Fire Prevention and Control and swift water rescue teams are standing by.