New York City Emergency Kit — Personalized for Your Risks

Local Hazard History

Though far north of the tropics, New York City is highly exposed to coastal storms. Hurricane Sandy (2012) drove a record storm surge into Lower Manhattan and coastal neighborhoods, flooding subway tunnels, knocking out power for days, and causing dozens of deaths — among the most damaging storms in the city's history. The remnants of Hurricane Ida (2021) later killed New Yorkers trapped in flooded basement apartments. NYC also faces nor'easters and blizzards that can paralyze transit.

When Risk Peaks

• Jun–Nov: Atlantic hurricane and tropical-storm season
• Aug–Oct: Peak coastal storm-surge threat
• Dec–Mar: Nor'easters and blizzards — the dominant winter hazard
• Summer: Sudden downpours can flash-flood streets and basements

What to Pack for New York City

Dense city living calls for a compact, apartment-friendly kit:

• 3+ days of water and food that store easily in small spaces
• Warm layers and blankets for winter cold or power outages
• A flashlight, battery/hand-crank radio, and portable chargers
• Know your hurricane evacuation zone (1–6) and a plan that doesn't depend on elevators
• Keep documents and cash in a grab-and-go pouch

Local Resources

• NYC Emergency Management — City preparedness, alerts, and hazard guidance.
• Notify NYC — The city's free official emergency notifications.
• Know Your Zone — Evacuation Finder — Look up your hurricane evacuation zone by address.