Following a recent August storm in the area NYSEG shared images of the damage online. (Photo from NYSEG)

ALBANY – Gov. Kathy Hochul has directed the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to issue emergency declarations in 18 counties, including Chenango, to help rebuild infrastructure damaged by recent flooding.

Many parts of Chenango County were subjected to severe flooding when the remnants of Hurricane Debby swept across the area on Aug. 9-10.

The governor’s emergency declaration authorizes DEC to expedite work permit reviews to repair waterway infrastructure, restore waterway channel capacity, and carry out other tasks to ensure public safety.