Old Howard Beach Residents Prepare for Seasonal Tidal Inundation

Old Howard Beach Residents Prepare for Seasonal Tidal Inundation By Richard Varney, Crime & Public Safety Reporter | January 18, 2026 | Health & Weather NEW YORK — "Our basements cannot take another season of minor flooding during high tide," civic member Maria Gigliuto said Saturday as she cleared leaves from a street drain. The neighborhood prepares for another series of elevated astronomical high tides. LowLying Streets Submerged During High Tide Coastal blocks along Hawtree Creek face regular challenges when weather systems collide with lunar cycles. According to ABC7 New York, local residents frequently cope with street flooding due to rain and high tide, prompting calls for larger infrastructure solutions. Streetlevel flooding often cuts off driveway access and forces commuters to park on higher ground. Homeowners have learned to monitor daily tide tables like weather forecasts. City Engineers Evaluate Coastal Protections "We are actively studying the drainage networks to identify where tide gates require clearing," an NYC Department of Environmental Protection official said in a statement released Friday. The agency confirmed that field crews have begun inspecting several outfalls along Jamaica Bay. Engineers warn that rising sea levels are making these minor flood events more frequent. Longterm mitigation plans remain under active review by the city council. High Tide Flooding Impact on Daily Transit Commuters face significant difficulties when seawater rises onto Coleman Square and surrounding pathways. Local school buses often have to reroute around flooded intersections during morning dropoff hours. To see how the city is responding with capital improvements, read about how the to elevate local streets. Property owners have taken independent measures to protect their vehicles and homes. Many have installed sumps and backflow prevention valves in their basements to stop water from backing up. Community Group Coordinates Tidal Advisory Alerts Neighborhood leaders use social media to warn drivers about which streets are impassable during high tide. The realtime updates help protect vehicles from saltwater damage. For more community resources, check out how the to share flood alerts and storm advice. Residents hope the upcoming capital budget will include funds for raising bulkheads along the basin. Until then, homeowners must rely on temporary sandbags and portable pumps. Emergency Responders Stage Vehicles on High Ground Local volunteer fire departments coordinate their staging plans ahead of predicted storm surges. Emergency vehicles are parked on higher avenues to ensure rapid response times. Crews are reminding residents to secure any loose outdoor items before high winds arrive. Standing saltwater remains a hazard for local electrical systems. Frequently Asked Questions How do I report a blocked catch basin on my block? Residents can report clogged street drains or slow drainage by calling 311 or using the city's online 311 portal. Providing the exact street address and cross street helps DEP crews locate and clear the blockage quickly. Clogged basins worsen high tide impacts. What should I do if saltwater reaches my vehicle's undercarriage? If your vehicle is exposed to coastal floodwaters, you should rinse the undercarriage thoroughly with fresh water as soon as possible to prevent corrosion. Avoid driving through flooded streets whenever possible. Saltwater is highly destructive to brakes and electrical components.

Old Howard Beach Residents Prepare for Seasonal Tidal Inundation

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