WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Richard Hanna (R-NY) and U.S. Rep. Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) today requested a Federal Emergency Declaration for six New York Counties, including Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, Tioga and Tompkins, where flood waters have risen to catastrophic levels. An emergency declaration would make federal resources immediately available to mitigate flood damage, save lives, protect property and public infrastructure, and ensure public health and safety.

“I am monitoring the situation in the Southern Tier and am concerned as it appears the City of Binghamton may experience very serious and devastating flooding,” Hanna said. “I stand ready to support any necessary requests for federal aid. I urge residents to heed warnings from local law enforcement and public officials, and prepare for flooding to develop as rivers and creeks continue to rise. I will continue to monitor developments throughout Upstate New York should additional resources be needed.”

"I am absolutely committed to delivering every last dime of federal assistance necessary to help this area recover," Hinchey said. "Our first priority must be ensuring public safety and mitigating the damage being caused by rising flood waters. Police, firefighters, other first responders and local officials worked around the clock last night. They need some backup, and a federal emergency designation will help provide that assistance."