ROCHESTER, N.Y., Saturday, 2:49 p.m. — A tornado warning has been issued for Monroe County. Gusty thunderstorms are sweeping through the region. Over 6,000 RG&E customers are without power. The National Weather Service urges immediate shelter.
The dual threat is real: a tornado warning and an active severe thunderstorm warning. Residents must act now.
1. Tornado Warning vs. Severe Thunderstorm Warning
The tornado warning, issued at 2:49 p.m., is an urgent alert. It means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. The severe thunderstorm warning, still in effect, involves damaging winds and hail. Both require different actions.
Safety actions:
- Seek a basement or interior room on the lowest floor.
- Avoid windows.
- Stay tuned to local alerts or NOAA weather radio.
The National Weather Service covers Monroe County and surrounding areas. Do not ignore the warning.
2. Real-Time Impact: Over 6K Without Power
Power outages are widespread. As of Saturday afternoon, more than 6,000 RG&E customers are affected in Monroe County. Some reports indicate over 7,000. Gusty winds have downed trees and power lines.
Power outage survival tips:
- Use generators outdoors only.
- Keep refrigerator doors closed.
- Check on vulnerable neighbors.
- Report outages to RG&E via app or hotline.
RG&E crews have been dispatched. Restoration timelines are unknown.
| Utility | Customers Affected | Status |
|---|---|---|
| RG&E | 6,000+ (reports up to 7,000) | Crews dispatched; no restoration estimate |
3. Gusty Thunderstorms Cause Flooding and Damage
Flooding is reported in Bergen. Roads are flooded. Downed trees and property damage are widespread. Avoid flooded streets. Report hazards to local authorities.
Document damage for insurance claims. Take photos. Note the time and location.
RochesterFirst coverage confirms gusty thunderstorms are the cause.
4. Emergency Preparedness Checklist
Prepare now. Storms can escalate quickly.
- Charge phones and power banks.
- Emergency kit: water, flashlight, batteries, first aid.
- Identify safe room: basement or interior closet.
- Survival supplies: cash, manual can opener, blankets.
- Stay informed via NOAA weather radio or mobile alerts.
Rochester’s storm patterns demand readiness.
5. After the Warning: Post-Storm Recovery
Once the all-clear is given, follow these steps.
- Report power outages to RG&E via app or hotline.
- Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas, leave immediately.
- Avoid downed power lines. Assume they are live.
- Assess property damage safely. Wear sturdy shoes.
Contact Monroe County emergency management for resources. Utility restoration may take hours or days.
Community support is key. Share updates with neighbors.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What is the difference between a tornado warning and a severe thunderstorm warning in Rochester NY?
- A: A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar, requiring immediate shelter in a basement or interior room. A severe thunderstorm warning involves damaging winds and hail, also requiring safety precautions but with less imminent threat of a tornado.
- Q: How many people are without power due to the Rochester NY storms?
- A: Over 6,000 RG&E customers are affected in Monroe County, with some reports indicating up to 7,000 outages as gusty winds down trees and power lines.
- Q: What should I do during a tornado warning in Rochester NY?
- A: Seek a basement or interior room on the lowest floor, avoid windows, and stay tuned to local alerts or NOAA weather radio. Do not ignore the warning.
- Q: How can I stay safe during a power outage in Rochester NY?
- A: Use generators outdoors only, keep refrigerator doors closed, check on vulnerable neighbors, and report outages to RG&E via app or hotline.
Extended Reading
For further details, see the Daily News Online report on the 2:49 p.m. tornado warning and flooding in Bergen. Also, refer to WHEC’s coverage of over 7,000 RG&E customers without power in Monroe County on Saturday. RochesterFirst also documents gusty thunderstorms causing power outages.