Flood Watch/Travel Advisory this afternoon through tomorrow afternoon

July 31, 2025

Dear members of the Columbia community: 

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flood Watch for New York City and the surrounding region beginning this afternoon (July 31) through tomorrow afternoon (Aug. 1). According to the NWS forecast, scattered to numerous instances of urban, poor drainage and riverine flash flooding are possible. Localized severe flooding may cause an elevated threat to life and property, particularly this afternoon and tonight. Rainfall rates could exceed 2 inches per hour. 

The NYC Office of Emergency Management issued an accompanying Travel Advisory for today and tomorrow, stating that storms may cause widespread minor flooding across the city, along with localized instances of flash flooding, that may result in disruptions to travel and transportation, particularly during the evening commute today. 

Avoid walking or driving through flooded streets. Please consider the timing of your commute this afternoon/evening in light of the storm’s expected timing. The city advises limiting travel and staying inside during periods of severe weather. If you travel, exercise caution, build in extra time, and check the service status of your transportation provider before beginning your travels. 

WHAT TO EXPECT ON CAMPUS 
Normal operations are anticipated on campus. Transportation shuttle service and the Public Safety Evening Shuttle, operated by Via, are anticipated to operate with potential delays based on road conditions. EMOT is actively monitoring the situation. Any changes to campus operations will be communicated through Columbia’s emergency notification systems. 

PREPARE FOR THE STORM 
Please help preserve buildings, valuables, and most importantly your own safety, by doing the following: 

  • Securely close all windows, window shades, blinds, or curtains. This single step may be the most important way that you can protect your space from potentially damaging heavy rain. 
  • Prepare for potential power outages by charging cell phone batteries and gathering supplies. If you lose power and have disability or access needs or use Life Sustaining Equipment (LSE) and need immediate assistance, please dial 911 immediately or Columbia Public Safety at 212-854-5555 (Morningside), 212-853-3333 (Manhattanville) or 212-305-7979 (CUIMC). 
  • Turn off lights, appliances, electronics, and other non-essential equipment before leaving. Electrical or valuable items should be moved off the floor and away from windows. 
  • Close fume hoods when not in use and shut down non-essential lab equipment. 
  • Make sure all critical equipment is connected to emergency power outlets. 

WHAT WE ARE DOING 
Facilities is proactively clearing exterior drains and protecting areas prone to leaks. Facilities staff will also be walking the rooms of campus buildings, looking for conditions such as open windows or leaks. We have additional staff on hand to provide a fast response to service requests and emergencies.  

If you see an unsafe condition on campus including leaks, opened windows and doors, or other issues, please immediately contact Facilities. Our Service Centers are prepared to handle increased volume. 

  • At Morningside/Manhattanville, call or text 212-854-2222 or email [email protected].  
  • At the Medical Center, call 212-305-HELP (4357), option 3 or email [email protected].  
  • For students living in the Morningside residence halls, the Hartley Hospitality Desk can be reached 24/7 at 212-854-2779. 

To report an emergency on campus 24/7, call Public Safety at 212-854-5555 at Morningside, 212-853-3333 at Manhattanville, and 212-305-7979 at the Medical Center. 

The Emergency Management Operations Team