Senator Young Urges Caution in Wake of Flooding in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties

Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I-Olean) urges residents to take precautions and help local officials in the wake of recent flooding by immediately reporting any storm damage.

Although the full extent of the impact remains unclear, the flooding that has ravaged parts of Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties is expected to have caused millions of dollars in damages as floodwaters have poured into homes and structures, and over roads and fields.

“Local response teams are working tirelessly to assist victims, to assess the damage, and to clean up the aftermath,” said Senator Young.

Anyone with an immediate need for assistance is urged to call one of the following emergency contacts.

For flood kits, recovery, and cleanup help:

Jamestown American Red Cross
716-664-5115
www.redcross.org/ny/jamestown 

Jamestown Salvation Army
716-664-4108
83 South Main Street, Jamestown, NY  14701

For senior assistance:

NY Connects
716-753-4582  -or-  716-363-4582  -or-  716-661-7582

For water or sanitation issues:

Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services
716-753-4481  -or-  716-753-4232 (after hours)

For small business owners with flood damage:

Small Business Development Center
716-338-1024

For gas problems:

National Fuel
800-365-3234

Any further questions in Chautauqua County:

Chautauqua County Office of Emergency Services
716-754-4341

Any further questions in Cattaraugus County:

Cattaraugus County Office of Emergency Services
716-938-2244

As always, in an emergency situation, call 911.

“Nobody should take chances with their health or safety, so I am urging anyone who comes across unsafe conditions, roadways, or other obstacles and debris to use extreme caution.

“It is extremely important that you report damage you encounter to the appropriate local responders who are best positioned to help you.

“In the long term, I will be working with local governments and state and federal officials to help hard hit areas recover. I stand ready to assist in any way I can to secure assistance at the state level for the devastation that has occurred. Once we get a clearer picture of the total damage it will guide us in looking for the best way to help in the recovery from these storms,” said Senator Young.