Emergency and weather alert text system launched by NYS

New Yorkers can now sign up for emergency and weather alert text messages from the state ahead of hurricane season, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office said Thursday.

The state's text system, dubbed Triple Three Triple One, allows residents to text their county name to 333111 to receive the emergency and weather alerts.

Residents in New York City can text their borough or "NewYorkCity" to receive location-specific warnings and alerts.

Texts are not case sensitive and residents can enroll in multiple locations at no cost, officials said.

"To best prepare for inclement weather — especially as hurricane season approaches — I am encouraging all New Yorkers to sign up for alerts so they can remain safe and vigilant when high-impact events occur," Hochul said in a statement.

The text messages will work in addition to the federal emergency alert system that sends alerts to cellphones during severe weather or flash-flood warnings, officials said.

"As Hurricane Season approaches, the launch of Triple Three Triple One alerting gives New Yorkers access to another tool that they can use to help keep themselves and their loved ones prepared for and safe during severe weather," New York Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said in a statement.

The state’s Department of Homeland Security also is deploying $15 million in flood equipment and supplies throughout the state, including pumps, generators and flood barriers in preparation for hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30.

Forecasters with Colorado State University have predicted an above-average hurricane season, with 17 named storms, slightly above the average of 14 storms usually forecast during that period, according to the university’s model. The Atlantic forecast predicts four major storms.

The National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center have not issued forecasts for the season.

"Everyone should learn their risk by considering the threats from tropical storms," the weather service said in a statement provided by the governor’s office. "Threats include storm surge, flooding from heavy rain, strong winds, tornadoes and rip currents ... so pay attention to the latest forecasts and be alert for warnings."

By John Asbury

john.asbury@newsday.comJohnAsbury

John Asbury is a breaking news and general assignment reporter. He has been with Newsday since 2014 and previously worked at The Press-Enterprise in Riverside, California.