Flood preparations in Ithaca
/ photo: Alex Dunbar
ITHACA -- The travel ban in Tompkins County has been lifted, but drivers are still being urged to use caution.
The road closure order is being replaced by a Travel Advisory, with drivers urged to use extreme caution on all roads due to flooding concerns. Certain roads will remain impassable. Deputies are examining and evaluating road conditions.
Tompkins County government offices reopened at 11:00 a.m.
In Ithaca, all city offices have reopened. They were closed earlier due to the travel ban in Tompkins County.
Some portions of roads will remained closed in the City of Ithaca, particularly in the Titus Flats area due to high water conditions. Drivers are advised to use alternate routes and to avoid the area if possible. Route 13 southbound through Downtown Ithaca was closed for much of the morning but one lane had re-opened by Thursday afternoon.
The Ithaca Fire Department, Ithaca Police Department and Department of Public Works continue to monitor conditions closely. Officials are encouraging you to stay away from the creeks, gorges, and high/swift water areas as rescue operations would be extremely dangerous.
The Ithaca Fire Department urges people to check their basements and utilities. Crews from the Fire Department have been helping pump out basements since 11pm Wednesday night. A State of Emergency is also in effect for the Town of Caroline for the next five days because of hazardous conditions caused by stream and creek flooding.
Early this morning, NYSEG reported scattered power outages, in the City, Cayuga Heights, and Willseyville.
Remember to call 911 only if you have an emergency. Reports of flooding or other concerns can be communicated to the Department of Emergency Response office at (607) 257-3888 or (607)342-4568.
