Orleans County Multi-Jurisdictional All-Hazard Mitigation Plan · 2020-01-30 · Orleans County Multi-Jurisdictional All-Hazard Mitigation Plan Prepared by the Genesee/Finger Lakes

Orleans County Multi-Jurisdictional All-Hazard Mitigation Plan

Prepared by the Genesee/Finger Lakes Regional Planning Council 65

Chapter 6: Hazard Profiles INTRODUCTION This chapter provides a series of profiles for each of the hazards assessed in the Hazards New York (HAZNY) analysis in Chapter 5. Each profile includes a definition of the hazard; a review of past incidences of that hazard; a brief description of the actual and/or potential impacts of that hazard; a review of recorded damages including, where available, estimated costs of those damages; the probability of future occurrences; and lastly the sources of the data included in the profile. For ease of review, this chapter is organized into two main parts. Natural hazards are profiled in Part I, Natural Hazard Profiles. Man-made hazards are profiled in Part II, Man-made Hazard Profiles. Each individual hazard is assigned its own Section. Each section is then broken down into six subsections, which are: 1.) Definition, 2.) History, 3.) Impacts, 4.) Damage, 5.) Probability, and 6.) Research. All these sections are filled out to the greatest extent possible with information available for this Plan; where good data was not available, the Plan identifies what additional data should be developed and included in future versions of the Plan. The following natural hazards are profiled in Part I: Blight, Severe Winter Storm, Ice Storm, Infestation, Earthquake, Extreme Temperatures, Tornadoes, Severe Storm, Flood, Drought, Ice Jam, Wildfire, Hurricane, Epidemic, Landslide. The following hazards are profiled in Part II: Terrorism, Dam Failure, Hazmat (Fixed Site), Water Supply Contamination, Utility Failure, Fire, Hazmat (in Transit), Oil Spill, Transportation Accident, Explosion, Civil Unrest, Air Contamination, Structural Collapse, Radiological (In Transit), Fuel Shortage, Radiological (Fixed Site), Food Shortage. In general, information for this chapter was collected from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, the digital All-Hazard Mitigation Plan Development Toolkit prepared by FEMA and NYSEMO, Orleans County and municipal officials, and online resources such as the National Climatic Data Center’s U.S. Storm Events Database. Additional sources are noted under the “Research” subsection of each section. CRITERIA FOR FUTURE PROBIBILITY Each hazard profile has a section that displays a percentage figure for future probability. This percentage, unless otherwise noted, was calculated by dividing the number of recorded past incidents by the number of years for which good records are available. In some cases, good information was not available; in such cases the future probability was estimated using the best available data. High Probability – A percentage ranging from 75 to 100 and above. Moderate Probability – A percentage ranging from 25 to 74. Low Probability – A percentage ranging from 0 to 24.



PART I: NATURAL HAZARD PROFILES SECTION 6.1: BLIGHT Subsection 6.1.A: Definition: A disease of agricultural crops or non-agricultural plants resulting in withering, lack of growth, and death of its parts without rotting. Subsection 6.1.B: History: In a typical year one or two crops in Orleans County suffer slight damage from blight, but these incidents do not pose a major threat to crops and are address on a case-by-case basis by farmers with little or no outside support. No major past incidents of blight have occurred in the county. However, a major blight incident could cause serious disruption to the local economy by severely damaging crops and drastically reducing crop yields. Subsection 6.1.C: Impacts: Blight causes crop damage, leading to lower crop yields and decreased income for farmers. Subsection 6.1.D: Damage: Costs not provided. Subsection 6.1.E: Future Probability: Minor blight events typically occur on an annual basis. This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. Subsection 6.1.F: Research: Blight data was obtained from the Orleans County Red Cross, the Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Farm Service Agency, and the Soil & Water Conservation District. SECTION 6.2: SEVERE WINTER STORMS Subsection 6.2.A: Definition: A storm system that develops in late fall to early spring and deposits wintry precipitation, such as snow (including lake effect), sleet, or freezing rain, with a significant impact on transportation systems and public safety. Subsection 6.2.B: History: There have been 43 incidents of severe winter storms in Orleans County from 1993 to 2005, occurring frequently in the winter months from November to April. Typically several severe winter storms occur each winter season. These events have also occurred prior to 1993, but this is the earliest readily accessible record. Winter storm hazards in New York State are virtually guaranteed yearly since the State is located at relatively high latitudes resulting winter temperatures range between 0 degree F and 32 degree F for a good deal of the fall through early spring season, that is from late October until Mid-April. In addition, the State is exposed to large quantities of moisture from both the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. While it is almost certain that a number of significant winter storms will occur during the winter – Fall season, what is not easily determined is how many such storms will occur during that time frame. For example, during the calendar year 1997, three (3) significant winter storms occurred. During the calendar year 2000, sixteen (16) such storms were noted. The type of winter storm that generally impacts Orleans County is known as a “Lake Effect” storm. Moisture is picked up from Lake Erie and then blown across the western and central areas of the state, often leaving huge quantities of snow in its wake. The major effects of lake effect storms include large snow accumulations and high winds, which typically contribute to extremely hazardous travel conditions.



Lake effect storms usually occur in the west-central portion of the State, but have been known to affect the eastern portion if the storm becomes large enough. Both Nor’easters and Lake Effect storms cause major damages in their wake, usually by disrupting transportation, limiting communications, causing power outages, and under the most severe circumstances, requiring persons to abandon their homes and seek shelter in community centers such as schools or municipal buildings. The following map, excerpted from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, indicates annual snowfall levels for various locations around the State. According to this map the area around Albion, in the center of Orleans County, can expect about 67 inches of snow per year.

Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. The map on the following page, also from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, provides information on Presidential Disaster Declarations issued for Winter Snow Storms and Blizzards in New York State.

Orleans County



Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. This map indicates that Orleans County has had two (2) Presidential Disaster Declarations for snow storms/blizzards between 1953 and 2007. The map also shows that several counties near Orleans, namely Erie, Genesee, and Wyoming, have had the same number of disaster declarations during the same time. This map clearly indicates the impact of Lake Effect snow storms moving off Lake Erie and impacting the counties due east of the lake. Subsection 6.2.C: Impacts: Severe winter storms generally cause power outages, downed lines, wires, and trees, transportation accidents, school closings, and structural damage. Subsection 6.2.D: Damage: The NCDC database provides estimated damages for region-wide storm events, but does not specify damages inflicted on Orleans County property. Subsection 6.2.E: Future Probability: 43 events/12 years = 358%. This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring.



Subsection 6.2.F: Research: Severe winter storm data was obtained from the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) and the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. The first severe winter storm incident recorded in the NCDC’s database and included in this report occurred on January 13, 1993. Severe Winter Storms Affecting Orleans County from 1955 to 2005 *Indicates information that appears again under another hazard.

Date Municipality Damage ($) Injuries/ Fatalities

Description

1/13/1993 Orleans County

Not Reported 0/0 Snow/Ice Storm*


Not Reported 0/0 Heavy Snow*




Not Reported 0/0 A storm brought a general snowfall of 4 to 6 inches across much of the area.*


Not Reported 0/0 Snowfall amounts ranges from 6 to 12 inches. The heavy snows, combined with strong gusty winds, created treacherous driving conditions. Several school districts were forced to close.*


Not Reported 0/1 A major winter storm system produced blizzard conditions from the Southeastern United States to Quebec. A northwest flow of cold air following the storm produced lake effect squalls Sunday afternoon and night which only added to the snowfall amounts. The heavy snow combined with high winds of 20 to 40 mph and gusts to 60 mph to produce extensive blowing and drifting snow with zero visibilities. The blowing and drifting was so bad highway superintendents pulled the snowplows off the road. Snow drifts of 5 to 10 feet were reported. Trees and wires were also downed by the high winds. Minor power outages were scattered across the area. Driving bans and restrictions were in place in all counties in the area with the exception of Erie and parts of Chautauqua Counties. Driving in those areas however was still treacherous.








Not Reported 0/0 A major winter storm brought heavy snowfall to the area. In general 10-15 inches of snow fell across the area. School closings were the rule. The winter road conditions were blamed for many automobile accidents, some with injuries.*


Not Reported 0/0 A late season winter storm dumped six to ten inches of heavy, wet snow across portions of Western New York.*


Not Reported 0/0 Lake effect snowstorm.*


Not Reported 0/0 Totals ranged from six to nine inches near Lake Ontario to five to seven inches across metro Buffalo and the western Finger Lakes. Numerous accidents were blamed on the heavy snow which fell after several weeks of mild, spring-like conditions.*


Not Reported 0/0 Several inches of the icy slush coated trees and power lines, the weight of which downed trees and lines. Various school districts throughout the area cancelled classes because of the treacherous conditions. Countless automobile accidents, some



with injuries, were blamed on the storm. Power outages were scattered across the region. *


Not Reported 0/0 An early season winter storm brought heavy snow to the area as low pressure moved north along the Atlantic coast. The snow was wet and heavy and snarled traffic badly. Countless accidents were reported, many with injuries. Several school districts were forced to close.*


Not Reported 0/0 A weak frontal system stalled across the area and brought heavy snows to the northern sections of the region. The heaviest snow extended from Niagara and Orleans counties across Lake Ontario to Jefferson and Lewis counties. Six to eight inches of snow fell in the above mentioned areas. *


Not Reported Some Injuries

An intensifying storm over the Southern Plains moved northeast spreading a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain across the area. Several of snow was followed by sleet and freezing rain. The wintry precipitation stalled traffic and forced schools to extend the holiday break a few more days. Numerous automobile accidents, several with injuries, were blamed on the storm.*


Not Reported 0/0 Heavy lake effect snow squalls began on the evening of the 3rd. Off Lake Erie, the band slowly drifted south over the Niagara Frontier during the next two days. Total snowfall from the 48 hour event was fairly consistent across the region due to the slow southerly drift of the snow band.*


Not Reported Some Injuries

Low pressure moving northeast across the region brought heavy snow and zero visibilities to the region. The synoptic snow was enhanced by moisture from the Great Lakes ahead of a cold front. Once the front moved through the region the cold air crossing Lakes Erie and Ontario produced lake effect snow squalls. Numerous automobile accidents, several with injuries, were blamed on the heavy snow and reduced visibilities.*


Not Reported 0/0 A general snowfall fell across the region as a result of a large weather system over the Ohio Valley. Most of the Niagara Frontier received six to nine inches of new snow.*


Not Reported 0/0 Low pressure moved to the south of the area and produced a general heavy snowfall across the region. The heavy, wet snow combined with freezing rain. The heavy snows again resulted in traffic tie-ups and school closings. Visibilities were reduced and roads became treacherous from the ice mix of snow and sleet. A general snowfall of six to nine inches fell across the entire area. This latest bout only added to the harsh winter conditions across the region. Several counties in the area were declared disaster areas by the State and Federal government.*

1/16/1999 Orleans County/Gaines

Not Reported 0/0 Near record snowfalls of four to six feet across the region during the last part of December and first half of January put a strain on area buildings. Roof collapses and entire structure failures were numerous across the area. Some specific examples of damage: In Gaines, the roof of the Highway garage collapsed, damaging some snow removal equipment. Numerous barns across the region collapsed under the excessive weight of the snow, in several dairy cows were injured and killed. Several garages collapsed damaging the automobiles and machinery inside them. The structure failures aided in the decision by the State and FEMA to declare disaster areas and make assistance available to the counties.*




Not Reported 0/0 Deep low pressure moved from West Virginia north across New York to Quebec, Canada. Snow fell at the rate of two to three inches per hour. The strong winds off Lake Ontario resulted in blizzard conditions for nearly six hours. Drifts reached four to five feet in places. The Governor declared Monroe, Wayne, Oswego, Orleans, Livingston, and Cayuga counties State Disaster Areas. Orleans, Ontario, Orleans, Livingston, Monroe and Wayne counties were also declared Federal Disaster Areas. The National Guard was called on to help remove cars, rescue stranded motorists and deliver food and medical supplies. Schools and businesses were closed throughout the area.*


Not Reported 0/0 A strong storm dropped a general six to twelve inches of snow across the entire region. The snow fell just two days after much of the area was recovering from another major winter storm. The heavy snow was blamed for numerous auto accidents--some with injuries.*


Not Reported 0/0 Locally heavy snowbands set up on a west to northwest wind off Lakes Erie and Ontario. The heaviest snow fell close to Lake Ontario from Orleans to Northern Cayuga Counties with six to nine inches across the Rochester metro area.*


Not Reported 0/0 Low pressure moved across the Ohio Valley and Pennsylvania spreading a wintry mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain across the area. Snowfall amounts of four to eight inches in addition to 1/4 to 1/2 inch ice were common across the Niagara Frontier.*


Not Reported 0/0 Cold air crossing the warm waters of Lakes Erie and Ontario resulted in lake effect squalls that dropped over two feet downwind of the lakes. Off Lake Erie, the squall developed around midday on the 20th in a southwest flow ahead of a cold front. Snow fell at the rate of two to four inches per hour for several hours.*


Not Reported 0/0 Lake effect snow bands meandered across the areas downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario from late on the 5th through the 7th. A cold front crossed the region and ushered in a west to northwest flow of cold air. The squalls which developed dropped up to two feet of light, fluffy snow.*


Not Reported 0/0 Low pressure developed off the mid Atlantic coast then moved north along the coast bringing a general snowfall to the area. Between six and twelve inches of snow fell across the area with higher amounts downwind from Lakes Erie and Ontario due to lake enhancement.*


Not Reported 0/0 A three to five inch snowfall overnight of the 30th-31st turned to freezing rain during the morning hours. Ice accumulations of one-half to three-quarters inch occurred. Hundreds of thousands were left without power as the heavy ice build-up downed trees and power lines. Some areas were without power for up to 72 hours. Winds picked up and gusted to 55 mph. Trees and tree limbs fell blocking roads and damaging homes and automobiles. Tree damage included large and small limb breakage and bark damage as well as the uprooting of trees. States of Emergency were declared across the Niagara Frontier counties. East of Lake Ontario snowfall amounts of six to eight inches were followed by one-quarter to one-half inch of ice.*


Not Reported 0/0 Lake effect snows developed in a cold, northwest flow during the overnight hours of the first. Off Lake Ontario a weaker snow band developed with accumulations of eight to twelve inches.*




Not Reported 0/0 A persistent west to northwest flow produced lake effect snows along the south shore of Lake Ontario. The heaviest snows fell during the early morning hours of the 21st.*


Not Reported 0/1 Low pressure over Illinois brought a mix of wintry weather to the area. Schools and businesses closed for several days. The falling trees and power poles produced a significant amount of damage to structures and automobiles. *


Not Reported 0/0 Multiple lake effect snow bands developed in a cold northwest flow following a strong cold front. Off Lake Erie, the activity was concentrated along higher elevations of Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Orleans counties. Off Lake Ontario, a long band of snow off Lake Huron was enhanced by Lake Ontario and extended across the lakeshore areas of Niagara, Orleans and Monroe counties.*


Not Reported 0/0 Low pressure intensified as it moved from the Gulf Coast up the mid-Atlantic coast to New England and brought a general snow to the entire region. The event lasted 24 to 30 hours from the early morning of Sunday the 14th through early Monday. The typical rash of automobile accidents occurred as a result of the wintry conditions. Several injuries, some serious, were a reported in the accidents.*


Not Reported 0/0 This major lake effect storm began early on Tuesday the 6th following a sharp cold front. Off Lake Erie, a strong westerly flow ignited heavy lake snow bands over southern Erie and Orleans counties. *


Not Reported 0/0 The late season storm produced ten to twenty inches of heavy, wet snow across much of the region. The snow began across the western southern tier around daybreak on the 16th and during the morning hours across the Niagara frontier and western Finger Lakes region. The snow continued, heavy at times, throughout the day and then began to taper off at midnight. Many schools and businesses heeded warnings closed on the 16th and remained closed on the 17th. The storm was blamed for numerous automobile accidents.*


Not Reported 0/0 A northeast flow of cold air produced lake effect snows then backed to northwest from Sunday afternoon (16th) through Monday afternoon (17th). A strong band of snow developed offshore on Lake Ontario and then moved onshore as the winds backed. Heavy snow fell over Niagara, Orleans, and Monroe counties Sunday night.*


Not Reported 0/0 Low pressure over the Ohio Valley moved to the Virginia coast and then lifted northeast off the Atlantic Coast. The system brought widespread snowfall to the entire region with eight to fourteen inch reports. Isolated reports of 20" were received due to lake enhancement. The winds, gusting to 40 mph, produced blizzard-like conditions in blowing and drifting snow.*


Not Reported 0/0 An intensifying low over Indiana and Ohio on February 28th lifted slowly across Lake Erie. Snow overspread the area during the late afternoon hours of the 28th. It was generally light at first, but became moderate to heavy for a time across the Niagara Frontier and northern Finger Lakes shortly after midnight.*



SECTION 6.3: ICE STORMS Subsection 6.3.A: Definition: Freezing rain which accumulates in a substantial glaze layer of ice resulting in serious disruptions of normal transportation and possible downed power lines. Subsection 6.3.B: History: There have been six reported ice storms in Orleans County from 1993 to 2005, in addition to minor ice storms that occur more regularly. Ice storms deposit layers of ice upon roadways, sidewalks, trees, power, and telephone lines generally causing major damage, and often some deaths. However, ice storms occur far less frequently than storms that deposit significant quantities of snow and/or sleet. Also, they generally do not last for more than one or two days. However, in the recent past there have been two major ice storms that lasted longer – one in 1991, and one in 1998. Both storms caused major power outages, property damages, and deaths. As with other winter storms the frequency of occurrence cannot be effectively predicted. The map below is excerpted from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan and shows the number of Presidential Disaster Declarations issued for Ice Storms in New York State.

Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan.



This map indicates that Orleans County has had two (2) Presidential Disaster Declarations for ice storms between 1953 and 2007. The map also shows that several counties near Orleans have had more such declarations: Monroe and Genesee have each had four (4), while Livingston has had (3). The map indicates that, on a statewide basis, Orleans County is in a high-risk area for ice storms. Subsection 6.3.C: Impacts: Ice storms have caused power outages; damage to automobiles, homes and other buildings; downed trees and wires; closings of schools and businesses; and general disruption to routine activities. Subsection 6.3.D: Damage: The NCDC database provides estimated damages for region-wide storm events, but does not specify damages inflicted on Orleans County property. Subsection 6.3.E: Future Probability: 6 events/12 years = 50%. While this percentage technically falls within the “Moderate” category, Ice Storms should actually be considered a “HIGH” probability hazard as the potential for a major ice storm is present on an annual basis. Subsection 6.3.F: Research: Ice storm data was obtained from the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) and the New York State Hazard Mitigation Plan. Major Ice Storms Affecting Orleans County from 1993 to 2005 *Indicates information that appears again under another hazard.

Date Municipality Damage ($) Injuries/Fatality Description 1/13/1993 Orleans County Not Reported 0/0 Snow/Ice Storm* 3/14/1997 Orleans County Not Reported 0/0 Deepening low pressure over Missouri tracked northeast

and brought a mix of ice and snow to the area. Several inches of the icy slush coated trees and power lines, the weight of which downed the trees and lines. Various school districts throughout the area cancelled classes because of the treacherous conditions. Countless automobile accidents, some with injuries, were blamed on the storm. Power outages were scattered across the region.*

1/15/1999 Orleans County Not Reported 0/0 Low pressure moved to the south of the area and produced a general heavy snowfall across the region. The heavy, wet snow combined with freezing rain. The heavy snows again resulted in traffic tie-ups and school closings. Visibilities were reduced and roads became treacherous from the ice mix of snow and sleet. A general snowfall of six to nine inches fell across the entire area. This latest bout only added to the harsh winter conditions across the region. Several counties in the area were declared disaster areas by the State and Federal government.*

2/14/2000 Orleans County Not Reported 0/0 Low pressure moved across the Ohio Valley and Pennsylvania spreading a wintry mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain across the area. Snowfall amounts of four to eight inches in addition to 1/4 to 1/2 inch ice were common across the Niagara Frontier, Western Southern Tier and Western Finger Lakes Region.*

1/31/2002 Orleans County Not Reported 0/0 A three to five inch snowfall overnight of the 30th-31st turned to freezing rain during the morning hours. Ice accumulations of one-half to three-quarters inch occurred. The heavy ice build-up downed trees and power lines. Some areas were without power for up to 72 hours.



Winds picked up and gusted to 55 mph. Trees and tree limbs fell blocking roads and damaging homes and automobiles. Tree damage included large and small limb breakage and bark damage as well as the uprooting of trees. States of Emergency were declared across the Niagara Frontier counties.*

4/4/2003 Orleans County Not Reported 0/1 Low pressure over Illinois brought a mix of wintry weather to parts of the Genesee Valley, the Finger Lakes and the North Country. Across the Genesee Valley and the Finger Lakes, the precipitation fell mainly as freezing rain. Up to an inch of ice accumulation was measured. A Federal Disaster Declaration included Livingston, Monroe, northern Cayuga, Ontario, Orleans, Oswego, and Wayne counties. The heavy ice accumulation downed trees, limbs and power and telephone lines. In some cases power outages lasted for up to one week. Schools and businesses closed for several days. The falling trees and power poles produced a significant amount of damage to structures and automobiles.*

SECTION 6.4: INFESTATION Subsection 6.4.A: Definition: An excessive population of insects, rodents, or other animals requiring control measures due to their potential to carry diseases, destroy crops, or harm the environment. Subsection 6.4.B: History: In a typical year one or two crops in Orleans County suffer slight damage from infestation, but these incidents do not pose a major threat to crops and are dealt with on a case-by-case basis. No major past incidents of infestation have occurred in the county. However, a major infestation incident could cause serious disruption to the local economy by severely damaging crops and drastically reducing crop yields. Subsection 6.4.C: Impacts: Infestation causes crop damage, leading to lower crop yields and decreased income for farmers. Subsection 6.4.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.4.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. Subsection 6.4.F: Research: Infestation data was obtained from the Orleans County Red Cross, the Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Farm Service Agency, and the Soil & Water Conservation District. SECTION 6.5: EARTHQUAKE Subsection 6.5.A: Definition: A sudden motion of the ground caused by release of subterranean strain energy, due to plate tectonics, resulting in surface faulting (ground rupture), ground shaking, or ground failure (collapse). Subsection 6.5.B: History: There have been 25 reported earthquakes in Orleans County from 1900 to 2005. None have caused serious damage. Earthquakes do not happen on a regular basis; however active



faults around Quebec, Canada and the New England area do affect Orleans County. Several fault lines run through the county. None of these faults are thought to pose an imminent threat. Earthquakes and aftershocks may cascade into fires, explosions, utility failures and structural damage. Other faults may exist in the area, but much research still needs to be done in order to determine exactly where they are or what threats they pose to the region. The map below depicts New York State’s vulnerability to earthquakes. This map, from the U.S. Geological Survey, shows the Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) values with a 10% chance of being exceeded over any given 50 year period. Peak Ground Acceleration is a measure of the strength of ground movements. This map shows the geographic area affected (all colored areas on the map), the probability of an earthquake of each given level of severity (10% chance in 50 years), and the severity (the PGA is indicated by color). Areas with the least earthquake risk are shown in green and areas with the greatest risk are shown in purple.

Source: FEMA/NYSEMO All-Hazard Mitigation Plan Development Toolkit. As the above map indicates, the southwestern area of Orleans County has a PGA of 4% of gravity (light yellow color) for earthquakes with a 10% chance of occurring within 50 years. The remainder of the county has a PGA of 3% of gravity (buff color) for earthquakes with a 10% chance of occurring within 50 years. The map on the following page presents historical earthquake epicenters spatially across the northeastern United States and Canada, illustrating and indicating, through areas of historical earthquake groupings, areas with a generally higher incidence and magnitude of earthquakes. Historical earthquake occurrence as presented on this map indicates that there are three areas of the state that have a higher seismic risk: northeast, southeast, and far western areas. While a cluster of epicenters is readily apparent in Wyoming



and Erie Counties (the 1929 Attica event in Wyoming County is noted as one of the most powerful recorded earthquakes in New York State’s history), no epicenters are visible in Orleans County. This map was prepared by NYSEMO using data from the NYS Geological Survey and the National Institute of Building Sciences.

Source: FEMA/NYSEMO All-Hazard Mitigation Plan Development Toolkit. The map on the following page is excerpted from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. It provides a more refined look at the earthquake hazard in Orleans County by assessing how local surface soil conditions might impact seismic waves generated by earthquakes. The map indicates that, given varying soil conditions in different areas of the County, the potential exists for increased damage in areas with brown and red coloring. Most of these areas, especially those in the southern part of the County, are open farmland. However, a severe earthquake has the potential to cause serious damage in all areas of the County.



Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. The following table is excerpted from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. It provides detailed information on the potential financial impacts of earthquakes to Orleans County. This data indicates that the County could suffer up to $99,000.00 per year in losses due to earthquakes.

HAZUS MH Earthquake Annualized Loss Estimation and Ranking Results (Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, Table 3-52)

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Orleans 2,401,498 90 10 99 41 2.25 55 33 52 38



Subsection 6.5.C: Impacts: Past earthquakes have been felt by area residents, but have not caused serious damage to property or infrastructure in the County. However, a major earthquake could impact the entire County and could strike at any time. Subsection 6.5.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.5.E: Future Probability: 25 events/105 years = 24%. While technically a LOW probability hazard according to this calculation, earthquakes should more accurately be considered a HIGH probability hazard due to the possibility of widespread damage should a major earthquake strike the County. Subsection 6.5.F: Research: Earthquake data was obtained from the Western New Yorker newspaper archives and the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. The first earthquake event included in this report was February 10, 1914. Earthquakes Affecting Orleans County from 1900 to 2005

Date Municipality Damage ($) Description 2/10/1914 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 2/28/1925 Orleans County Not Reported Largest earthquake in 100 years. Epicenter in Tadousac,

Quebec, Canada. No damage done. 8/12/1929 Orleans County Not Reported Most damaging local earthquake. Measured a 5.5 on the Richter

Scale. 12/2/1929 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 12/3/1929 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 1/17/1930 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 2/23/1939 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 10/31/1939 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 2/12/1942 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 5/28/1942 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 2/26/1944 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 3/2/1944 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 9/5/1944 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 9/20/1946 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 8/16/1955 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 7/17/1965 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 8/26/1965 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 1/1/1966 Orleans County Not Reported Orleans County was affected by an earthquake felt as far south

as Pennsylvania and as far north as Toronto. No damage was reported.

8/12/1969 Orleans County Not Reported An earthquake shook parts of Orleans County. It was measured a 3 on the Richter Scale.

2/8/1973 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 10/7/1983 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 1/31/1986 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 3/3/1986 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 11/25/1988 Orleans County Not Reported No Description Available. 10/1/1998 Orleans County Not Reported Orleans County was shook by an earthquake whose epicenter

was in Sharon, PA. It measured 5.2 on the Richter Scale.



SECTION 6.6: EXTREME TEMPERATURES Subsection 6.6.A: Definition: Extended periods of excessive cold or hot weather with a serious impact on human and/or animal populations particularly elderly and/or persons with respiratory ailments. Subsection 6.6.B: History: There are no recorded incidents of extreme temperatures in Orleans County, though normal climatic variation has led to warmer and cooler temperatures than are expected at different times throughout the past. Based on data from adjacent Genesee County, Orleans County can expect to see temperature ranges from an extreme low of about -25 degrees Fahrenheit to an extreme high of about 105 degrees Fahrenheit. These are the lowest and highest recorded temperatures in Genesee County. The Heat Index (HI), created by the National Weather Service, is a chart which accurately measures apparent temperature of the air as it increases with the relative humidity. The Heat Index can be used to determine what effects the temperature and humidity can have on the population. describes the adverse effects that prolonged exposures can have on individuals. To determine the Heat Index, you need the temperature and the relative humidity. Once both values are known, the Heat Index will be the corresponding number with both values. That number provides how it really feels. It is important to know that the Heat Index (HI) values are devised for shady, light wind conditions. Exposure to full sunshine can increase HI values by up to 15 degrees. Also, strong winds, particularly with very hot, dry-air can be extremely hazardous to individuals. Please see the following Heat Index chart for detailed information:

Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, Figure 3-56.



The following table is excerpted from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, Section 3.5.8. It profiles the potential human health hazards that are associated with certain extreme temperature ranges as based on the Heat Index (HI) table above.

Category Heat Index Health Hazards

Extreme Danger 130°F - Higher Heat Stroke/ Sunstroke is

likely with continued exposure.

Danger 105°F - 129°F

Sunstroke, muscle cramps, and/or heat exhaustion possible with prolonged

exposure and /or physical activity.

Extreme Caution 90°F - 105°F

Sunstroke, muscle cramps, and/or heat exhaustion possible with prolonged

exposure and /or physical activity.

Caution 80°F - 90°F Fatigue possible with

prolonged exposure and/or physical activity.

Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, Table 3-49. Please refer to the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, Section 3.5.8, for additional information on extreme heat events in New York State. Subsection 6.6.C: Impacts: Below freezing temperatures has lead to school and business closings throughout the county, but these are normal occurrences during the winter and do not pose significant threats. Only a sustained period of extreme heat or cold will lead to serious public health problems. Subsection 6.6.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.6.E: Future Probability: While there are no recorded past events of extreme temperatures and the data is not available to make an accurate forecast of future probability, an extreme temperature event could occur at any time. Such an event should be considered as a LOW probability. Subsection 6.6.F: Research: Information on extreme temperatures was obtained from several sources, including the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, the Orleans County Red Cross, and the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. SECTION 6.7: TORNADOES Subsection 6.7.A: Definition: A local atmospheric storm, generally of short duration, formed by winds rotating at very high speeds, usually in a counterclockwise direction. The vortex, up to several hundred yards wide, is visible to the observer as a whirlpool-like column of winds rotating about a hollow cavity of funnel. Winds have been estimated to be as high as 400 mph.



According to available statistics nearly 3 in 4 tornadoes occurring in New York State are classified as magnitude F0 or F1 on the Fujita-Pearson scale. A significant number, approximately one 1 in three 3, are classified as F0. Magnitude F0 indicates a tornado wind speed range of 40-72 mile per hour. F0 wind velocity typically produces only minor damage to property. A slim majority of tornados occurring in NYS produce winds ranging from 73-112 mph (F1 on Fujita scale), strong enough to move mobile homes from foundations. The table below provides a summary of the number of known tornados that have occurred in New York State for each Fujita scale classification:

Fujita Scale Number of Events in NYS

F0 (40-72 mph) 125 F1 (73-112 mph) 145 F2 (113-157 mph) 46 F3 (158-206 mph) 24 F4 (207-260 mph) 6

Magnitude not determined 29 Subsection 6.7.B: History: During the past 56 years one tornado has occurred in Orleans County. On September 29th, 1986 a tornado touched down in the County. It was F1 in magnitude and caused minor damage to trees, power lines, and several structures. Tornados are extremely rare occurrences and have not been responsible for human deaths or injuries in the County. The map on the next page was excerpted from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan and shows the location of all recorded tornado tracks in the State for the period between 1950 and 2005. The map indicates that only one tornado has struck Orleans County. It was the aforementioned F1 tornado and was localized in the northeast corner of the County, in the Town of Yates. However, in the future a tornado could easily strike anywhere in the County. Subsection 6.7.C: Impacts: The 1986 tornado caused downed tree limbs and wires and caused some minor damage to several buildings. Subsection 6.7.D: Damage: Reported damage for the 1986 tornado totaled $25,000. Subsection 6.7.E: Future Probability: 1 event/55 years – 1.8%. This hazard has a LOW probability of occurring. Subsection 6.7.F: Research: Tornado data was obtained from the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) beginning in 1950. Additional sources include the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, the Orleans County Red Cross, and the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan.



Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. SECTION 6.8: SEVERE STORMS Subsection 6.8.A: Definition: Severe storms include weather events such as hail storms, windstorms, and severe thunderstorms (with associated severe wind events such as derechos, gustnados, and downbursts). A severe thunderstorm is one which produces tornados, hail 0.75 inches or more in diameter, or winds of 50 knots (58 mph) or more. Structural damage caused by high wind may imply the occurrence of a severe thunderstorm. The map on the next page, which is based on the FEMA National Wind Zone map, depicts wind zones in New York State. Like all of western New York, Orleans County is located in Zone 3, where wind design speeds of up to 200 miles per hour are considered possible. This map also shows selected tornado tracks. One tornado track is shown in Orleans County, which meshes with data that is available from local records. Tornadoes are profiled separately under the “Tornado” hazard profile above (please see pages 81-83).



This map indicates a “Special Hurricane” zone in the southeastern part of the state, including Long Island, the metropolitan area of New York City, and the lower and mid Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains. Orleans County is located well outside this zone, and hurricanes are not considered a viable threat to the County. When the remnants of hurricane systems pass over the County, heavy rains, high winds, and flooding are be the typical result.

Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. Subsection 6.8.B: History: There have been about 150 recorded severe storms events in Orleans County during the past half-century. Severe Storms include hail storms, windstorms, and severe thunderstorms. These storms have occurred multiple times each year throughout the county. On several occasions strong lake winds have caused damage in the northern townships due to the county’s flat terrain and location along the lakeshore. Subsection 6.8.C: Impacts: Severe storms have occurred throughout the county; they cover broad areas but usually cause localized damage. These storms have interrupted utility services by downing power lines, telephone lines, and trees as well as causing damage to automobiles, windows, homes, and buildings. Subsection 6.8.D: Damage: The NCDC database provides estimated damages for region-wide storm events, but does not specify damages inflicted on Orleans County property. Subsection 6.8.E: Future Probability: 150 events/50 years = 300%. This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring.

New York State Wind Zones

Orleans County



Subsection 6.8.F: Research: Severe storm data was obtained from the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) and the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. The first severe storm incident recorded in this report occurred on May 15, 1961. Severe Storms Affecting Orleans County from 1955 to 2005 *Indicates information that appears again under another hazard.

Date Municipality Damage ($) Injuries/ Fatality

Description


Not Reported

0/0 Thunderstorm/Strong Winds


Not Reported



Not Reported

0/0 Hail, 1 inch of precipitation.


Not Reported

0/0 Thunderstorm, 61 kts Wind.


Not Reported

0/0 Hail, 1 inch of precipitation.


Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported

0/0 Hail, 1.75 inches of precipitation.


Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



25,000 0/0 F1 Tornado*


Not Reported



Not Reported


7/30/1988 Orleans Not 0/0 Thunderstorm/Strong Winds



County Reported 8/5/1988 Orleans

County Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported

0/0 Thunderstorm, 78 kts. Winds.


Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported



Not Reported

0/0 Hail, .75 inches of precipitation.

8/10//1992 Orleans County

Not Reported



Not Reported

0/0 Snow/Ice Storm*


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow*


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow*


Not Reported

0/0 An extensive low pressure system moved from Illinois across the lower Great Lakes to Northern New York. The storm brought a general snowfall of 4 to 6 inches across much of the area.*


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow. *


Not Reported

0/1 Major winter storm.*


Not Reported

0/0 Flooding reported.*


Not Reported

0/0 High Winds


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow*


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow*

7/25/1994 Lyndonville Not Reported

0/0 Hail, 1.75 inches of precipitation.

8/4/1994 Ridgeway Not Reported


8/28/1994 Shelby Not Reported



Not Reported

0/0 Over an inch and a half of rain fell in a short amount of time during the morning hours. Storms sewers were unable to handle the volume of water. Water was 12 to 18 inches deep in parts of both counties flooding lawns, roads and basements. Severe flooding in Albion resulted in a state of emergency being declared in the village.*

1/20/1995 Orleans Not 0/0 Over an inch and a half of rain fell in a short amount of time during



County Reported the morning hours. Storms sewers were unable to handle the volume of water. Water was 12 to 18 inches deep in parts of both counties flooding lawns, roads and basements. Severe flooding in Albion resulted in a state of emergency being declared in the village.*

7/13/1995 Albion Not Reported


7/17/1995 Kent Not Reported


7/17/1995 Medina Not Reported





Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow*


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow*


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow. *


Not Reported

0/0 Deep low pressure over the upper Great Lakes brought strong winds to the area. The high winds downed trees and power lines.*


Not Reported

0/0 A late season winter storm dumped six to ten inches of heavy, wet snow across the area.*


Not Reported

2/0 A strong cold front swept through Western New York during the evening hours of the 25th. Strong south winds ahead of the front brought down trees, power lines and telephone lines. Velocities were measured as high as 74 mph.*

4/23/1996 Holley Not Reported

0/0 Persistent rains of two to three inches fell on already Saturday ground. The resulting urban and small stream flooding closed many roads through out the area.*


0/0 Severe thunderstorms produced damaging winds which downed trees and power lines. In Albion, a parked car was crushed by a falling tree.*


0/0 Thunderstorms developed along a convergence line along the south shore of Lake Ontario. The storms continued to redevelop along the same line producing rainfall amounts between three and five inches in less than a three hour period. Street flooding was reported. In Medina, 30 basements were flooded.*




0/0 Flash Flooding*


0/0 Flash Flooding*


Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure moving northeast across Lake Superior brought strong winds to the area. The winds brought down trees, tree limbs, and power lines. Over 2000 were without power.*


0/0 A line of severe thunderstorms crossed the county. The thunderstorm winds downed trees and power lines resulting in scattered power outages. In Lyndonville, the winds tore the roof off a shed.*

1/10/1997 Orleans Not 0/0 Lake effect snowbands set up Friday morning over the Niagara



County Reported peninsula and Niagara county before shifting south to the Buffalo metro area during the afternoon.*


Not Reported

1/1 A strong cold front cross the region during the morning hours. Temperatures dropped 40 to 45 degrees with the passage of the front. The funneling effect of the Great Lakes combined with rapid pressure rises behind the front to produce hazardous winds. Trees, power lines and poles were downed across the entire area. Hundreds of thousands were left without power. Reports of homes and autos damaged by the falling trees and limbs were numerous. The strong winds caused structure damage in some locations tearing off roofs and shingles, blowing out windows, and collapsing walls.*


Not Reported

9/0 Deep low pressure moved from Indiana to Ontario bringing high winds to the area. The strong winds downed trees and telephone and power lines. Power outages were reported throughout the area. Several cities and towns declared States of Emergency because of the prolonged lack of power. Windows were blown out of buildings. The strong winds caused structure damage in some locations tearing off roofs and sidings and collapsing walls. Homes and autos were damaged by falling limbs.*


Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure deepened rapidly as it passed across Pennsylvania and drew cold air southward changing rain over the area to heavy, wet snow. Totals ranged from six to nine inches near Lake Ontario to five to seven inches across metro Buffalo and the western Finger Lakes. Numerous accidents were blamed on the heavy snow which fell after several weeks of mild, spring-like conditions.*


Not Reported

0/0 Deepening low pressure over Missouri tracked northeast and brought a mix of ice and snow to the area. Several inches of the icy slush coated trees and power lines, the weight of which downed the trees and lines. Various school districts throughout the area cancelled classes because of the treacherous conditions. Countless automobile accidents, some with injuries, were blamed on the storm. Power outages were scattered across the region.*


0/0 Thunderstorms developed during the afternoon hours along lake breezes from Lakes Erie and Ontario. The thunderstorm winds downed trees and power lines. Scattered power outages were reported.*


0/0 Thunderstorms developed ahead of a strong cold front and brought high winds and large hail to the region. The high winds downed trees and power lines and caused minor structural damage. Hail, as large as golf balls, damaged crops in Niagara and Orleans counties. Crops affected included apples, peaches, pears and cherries. Several fires were reported as a result of lightning strikes. The heavy rains that accompanied the storms resulted in minor urban flooding.*


Not Reported

0/0 An early season winter storm brought heavy snow to the area as low pressure moved north along the Atlantic coast. Snowfall amounts ranged from six to twelve inches across the region with the highest amounts over the Genesee valley and western Finger Lakes. The snow was wet and heavy and snarled traffic badly. Countless accidents were reported, many with injuries.*


0/0 Western and central New York was drenched with unprecedented January rainfalls over a 36 hour period. The entire region received between two and four inches of rain...rain which fell on bare, saturated ground. The rapid runoff produced urban flooding as



well as flooding of many small streams and creeks. Numerous roads throughout the area were closed due to flood waters. Local firefighting and public works departments were called out to pump water from flooded basements. The floodwaters overwhelmed several area wastewater treatment plants and water emergencies were declared. States of Emergency were also declared in various locations within the area. Several school districts cancelled classes. *


Not Reported

0/0 A weak frontal system stalled across the area and brought heavy snows to the northern sections of the region. The heaviest snow extended from Niagara and Orleans counties across Lake Ontario to Jefferson and Lewis counties.*


0/0 An outbreak of severe storms began across the region during the early morning hours. The storms were particularly dangerous because of the speed that they were moving across the region--sometimes in excess of 60 mph. Most of the damage associated with these storms occurred from a combination of high winds and hail. There were reports of numerous trees and wires down as well as power outages. In Niagara and Orleans counties, about 50% of the apple crop was damaged by the pelting hail stones.*

5/31/1998 Yates Center Not Reported

0/0 A second round of storms for the day moved across the region during the evening hours. Again the thunderstorms produced high winds, large hail and torrential rains. Trees and power lines were downed across western New York.*


0/0 Thunderstorms moved onshore from Lake Ontario during the early morning hours producing damaging winds which downed lines, trees and limbs in both Niagara and Orleans counties.


Not Reported

1/0 Severe thunderstorms moved onshore over northeast Niagara county shortly before midnight near Olcott and Golden Hill State Park in Barker. The line of storms quickly moved across Orleans, Monroe, Wayne, Ontario, and northern Cayuga counties. Across the area the damage path was nearly one hundred miles long and five to ten miles wide. Winds were estimated between 80 and 100 mph throughout the two hour event. Along the entire path, damage and debris all laid in an easterly direction consistent with the damage from straight-line winds. Most of the damage consisted of downed trees and limbs. The falling trees and limbs in turn downed power and telephone lines and resulted in damage to buildings and automobiles. Power outages, some lasting nearly a week, were widespread across parts of Orleans, Monroe and Wayne counties. The strong winds themselves also resulted in structural damage to homes, barns and buildings along the path including some in Lyndonville, Albion, Holley. States of Emergency were declared for sections of Orleans county. The strong winds severely damaged apple crops and trees from Niagara across Orleans and Monroe through Wayne counties.*


0/0 Some of the most intense thunderstorms in years moved across the Niagara Peninsula into Niagara, Erie, and Orleans counties. The thunderstorms produced hail up to four inches in diameter that broke numerous windows and windshields. Hundreds of cars were dented with damages of up to a couple of thousand dollars each. Although the storms were not accompanied by strong winds, the torrential rains produced resulted in visibilities near zero at times. After the storms, lawns and streets were covered white with hailstones. The large hailstones damaged apple crops in Niagara and Orleans counties which had already been hurt by a



windstorm earlier in the month. 11/10/1998 Orleans

County Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure over the Central Plains moved across the Great Lakes and brought high winds to western New York and the North Country. The strong winds, gusting to 62 mph, brought down tree limbs and power lines across the region. Several windows were blown in.*


Not Reported

Some Injuries

An intensifying storm over the Southern Plains moved northeast spreading a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain across the area. Several of snow was followed by sleet and freezing rain. The wintry precipitation stalled traffic and forced schools to extend the holiday break a few more days. Numerous automobile accidents, several with injuries, were blamed on the storm.*


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow. *


Not Reported

Some Injuries

Heavy Snow. *


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow. *


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow. *

1/16/1999 Gaines Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow. *


0/0 Heavy Snow. *


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy rain changed to heavy snow as cold air circulated into the region. Snow fell at the rate of two to three inches per hour. Drifts reached four to five feet in places. The New York State Thruway (I-90) was closed from Depew to Syracuse. Several hundred cars were stranded in the closed section. The Governor declared Monroe, Wayne, Oswego, Orleans, Livingston, and Cayuga counties State Disaster Areas. Orleans, Ontario, Orleans, Livingston, Monroe and Wayne counties were also declared Federal Disaster Areas. The National Guard was called on to help remove cars, rescue stranded motorists and deliver food and medical supplies. Schools and businesses were closed throughout the area. Nearly 10,000 customers lost power during the storm.


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow. *


0/0 Severe thunderstorms cross the region during the late afternoon hour. The thunderstorms produced heavy downpours, up to three inches in some spots, strong winds and large hail. The heavy downpours resulted in localized poor drainage flooding. The strong winds downed trees and power lines throughout the region. Structure damage was also reported. A thunderstorm which crossed Orleans and Livingston counties produced a swath of hail between one-half and one-mile wide. Windows were broken and siding and shutters were damaged. Hundreds of acres of corn were damaged. The golf ball sized hail covered the ground in spots and remained for several hours.


0/0 Severe thunderstorms developed across the counties along the south shore of Lake Ontario. The thunderstorms produced downpours and strong winds. The damaging winds downed trees and power lines with scattered outages reported.

7/25/1999 Shelby Not 0/0 Severe thunderstorms developed along lake breezes from Lakes



Reported Erie and Ontario then crossed parts of western New York and the Finger Lakes Region during the early afternoon hours. The thunderstorms produced nickel-sized hail and brief downpours. The downburst winds from the thunderstorms downed trees and limbs.


Not Reported

0/0 Locally heavy snowbands set up on a west to northwest wind off Lakes Erie and Ontario. The heaviest snow fell close to Lake Ontario from Orleans to Northern Cayuga Counties with six to nine inches across the Rochester metro area.


Not Reported

0/0 Strong winds accompanied the passage of a cold front across the area during the late morning and early afternoon hours. Trees and power lines were downed by the winds. In Medina, Orleans County, a downed tree fell onto a house causing structural damage. Gusts of 55 mph at Rochester were recorded. Power outages were scattered throughout the area.*


Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure moved across the Ohio Valley and Pennsylvania spreading a wintry mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain across the area. Snowfall amounts of four to eight inches in addition to 1/4 to 1/2 inch ice were common across the Niagara Frontier, Western Southern Tier and Western Finger Lakes Region.


0/0 Thunderstorms rolled across the Niagara Peninsula and then along the Lake Ontario shore counties. Only small hail was reported with the storms, however the storms produced hurricane-force winds. The high winds buffeted the area taking down trees and power lines.


0/0 An isolated thunderstorm produced damaging winds which downed trees and limbs in Medina.

7/17/2000 Carlton Not Reported

0/0 A line of thunderstorms which moved across Lake Ontario came onshore downing trees and power lines in Niagara and Orleans counties.


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow. *


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow. *


Not Reported

0/0 Deep low pressure over Ohio tracked northeast across the region. The strong pressure gradient on the back side of the low combined with rapid pressure rises resulted in very strong northwest winds across the region. The damaging winds downed trees and line throughout the area. The Red Cross opened several shelters throughout the area. Structural and property damage was also reported. Nearly a hundred thousand customers were without power across the region. Power outages lasted from several hours to nearly a day in some spots. Flights on the morning of the 12th were either delayed or cancelled at both the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and Rochester Airport.


Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure developed off the mid Atlantic coast then moved north along the coast bringing a general snowfall to the area. Between six and twelve inches of snow fell across the area with higher amounts downwind from Lakes Erie and Ontario due to lake enhancement. The heavy snowfall was accompanied by brisk northwest winds that resulted in blowing and drifting snow and wind chills of ten to twenty degrees below zero. Visibilities were near zero at times in intense snow and blowing snow. Specific snowfall reports included: 7" at Rochester and Albion.*

2/10/2001 Orleans Not 0/0 Deep low pressure over the western Great Lakes moved across



County Reported Ontario to Quebec and dragged a cold front across the area. Sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph were reported across the area with gusts up to 76 mph recorded. The strong winds downed trees and utility lines throughout the fourteen county areas. Several hundred thousand customers were without power. Roads were blocked by downed trees. There were numerous reports of property damage from the winds, mostly from trees falling on buildings and cars. Specifically, this was reported from Carthage, Jefferson county, Geneva, Ontario county, Pittsford and Honeoye Falls, Monroe county, Perry, Orleans county, Newark, Wayne county and Salamanca, Cattaraugus county. Specific measured wind gusts were: 58 mph in Niagara Falls, Niagara county and Albion, Orleans county.*


Not Reported

0/0 A three to five inch snowfall overnight of the 30th-31st turned to freezing rain during the morning hours. Ice accumulations of one-half to three-quarters inch occurred. Hundreds of thousands were left without power as the heavy ice build-up downed trees and power lines. Some areas were without power for up to 72 hours. Winds picked up and gusted to 55 mph. Trees and tree limbs fell blocking roads and damaging homes and automobiles. Tree damage included large and small limb breakage and bark damage as well as the uprooting of trees.


Not Reported

2/0 An intensifying storm moved across the Great Lakes and lifted northeast to the St. Lawrence Valley. Very strong winds behind the low blasted the region with wind gusts exceeding 55 mph. Trees and power lines were downed by the strong winds. Hundreds of thousands were without power...some for several days. Fallen trees and limbs littered the area and closed roads. Numerous reports of damage to homes and automobiles were received from throughout the area. Driving bans and States of Emergency were declared in several counties. Numerous school districts were forced to close on the first and several remained closed through the beginning of the following week.


Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure over Indiana deepened as it moved northeast. The strong southwest flow was funneled up the length of Lake Erie. Trees and power lines were downed.


Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure over Wisconsin deepened as it moved across Lake Superior and into northern Ontario. Strong winds accompanied and followed the passage of a cold front. The damaging winds affected the entire area, downing trees and power lines and causing some structural damage. Nearly 100,000 customers completely lost power with thousands others experiencing brief power outages.


0/0 Thunderstorms moved across the region ahead of a cold front. The thunderstorms produced damaging winds and hail up to 3/4" in diameter. The winds downed trees and power lines and scattered power outages were reported.


0/0 Thunderstorms developed ahead of an approaching cold front. The thunderstorms produced damaging winds which gusted to near 70 mph. Damage consisted mainly of downed trees and power lines.

7/29/2002 Kendall Not Reported

0/0 Thunderstorms developed ahead of an advancing cold front. The thunderstorm winds downed trees and power lines and scattered outages were reported.*


0/0 A cold front crossed the region during the evening hours. The thunderstorms that accompanied the front produced damaging



winds that downed trees and limbs. 12/1/2002 Orleans

County Not Reported

0/0 Lake effect snows developed in a cold, northwest flow during the overnight hours of the first.


Not Reported

0/0 A persistent west to northwest flow produced lake effect snows along the south shore of Lake Ontario. The heaviest snows fell during the early morning hours of the 21st. This caused considerable problems for the morning commute in the Rochester Metro area.


Not Reported

0/0 Strong low pressure brought high winds to the region during the late morning and early afternoon hours. Trees and power lines were downed by the strong winds. Scattered power outages were reported with those affected totaling several thousand customers.


Not Reported

0/1 Heavy Snow. *


Not Reported

0/0 High winds downed trees and power lines across the lower Genesee Valley during the afternoon hours. Up to 15000 customers were without power for several hours.

7/24/2003 Gaines Not Reported

0/0 Thunderstorms during the afternoon hours produced hail of three-quarters to an inch in diameter.


Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure over Ohio deepened as it moved across eastern Lake Erie and then across Lake Ontario. High winds buffeted the area downing trees and power lines and poles. Sustained winds of 30 to 40 mph with gusts to 70 mph were recorded. It was estimated that as many as 50,000 were without power at some point. In numerous locations, the falling trees damaged buildings and automobiles, for example--in Medina, Orleans county.


Not Reported

2/1 Deep low pressure tracked across southern Ontario and brought strong, damaging winds to the entire area. The winds downed trees and power lines. Over 100,000 customers were left without power. The falling trees and poles damaged homes and automobiles.. School districts in several counties closed. Several major radio and television stations were knocked off the air including Channel 13 in Rochester. Numerous flights at both the Buffalo and Rochester airports were delayed. In Gaines, a double wide mobile home was split and overturned.


Not Reported

0/0 Multiple lake effect snow bands developed in a cold northwest flow following a strong cold front. Off Lake Erie, the activity was concentrated along higher elevations of Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Orleans counties. Off Lake Ontario, a long band of snow off Lake Huron was enhanced by Lake Ontario and extended across the lakeshore areas of Niagara, Orleans and Monroe counties. Snowfall totaled 13" in Greece, 9" in Albion and 7" in Webster.*


Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure intensified as it moved from the Gulf Coast up the mid-Atlantic coast to New England and brought a general snow to the entire region. The event lasted 24 to 30 hours from the early morning of Sunday the 14th through early Monday. Amounts across the Genesee Valley and western Finger Lakes ranged from six to twelve inches. Specific snow totals included: 7" in Geneva, Dansville, Wellsville, Warsaw, Leroy and Albion. The typical rash of automobile accidents occurred as a result of the wintry conditions.


Not Reported

0/0 This major lake effect storm began early on Tuesday the 6th following a sharp cold front. Off Lake Erie, a strong westerly flow ignited heavy lake snow bands over southern Erie and Orleans counties. The band settled a bit further south and extended along



the Lake Ontario shore from Orleans through Wayne counties. The band weakened some later Wednesday night into Thursday as it drifted south to about the Thruway.


Not Reported

0/0 Heavy Snow. *


0/0 Thunderstorm winds brought down numerous trees, utility poles, power lines and caused structural damage as a derecho crossed the region. There were also numerous reports of dime to nickel sized hail with isolated reports of one to one and a half inch hail over Orleans and southern Livingston counties. Up to 10,000 customers were temporarily left without power by the storm.*

6/9/2004 Waterport Not Reported

0/0 A cold front moving south across the area was accompanied by showers and strong thunderstorms during the afternoon hours.


0/0 An upper level disturbance produced slow-moving thunderstorms along the south shore of Lake Ontario. The thunderstorms produced hail over Niagara, Orleans and Monroe counties. The slow moving thunderstorms dropped two to three inches of rain inundating numerous streets in Lewiston.


Not Reported

0/1 Western and central New York were inundated by drenching rains as the remnants of hurricane Frances drifted north across the region on Thursday September 9th. Area wide rainfall totaled 3 to 5 inches with the bulk of it falling in a 6 to 9 hour period from very late Wednesday to midday Thursday. Several creeks in the Buffalo and Rochester areas recorded their greatest flows and highest gage levels ever in a non-winter/spring season. In Cowlesville, Orleans county, a three-year-old boy drowned when he was swept away by flood waters while playing near a stream. His body was recovered further downstream along the banks of Cayuga Creek in Alden.*


Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure tracked across the eastern Great Lakes bringing strong winds to the Niagara Frontier, western Southern Tier, and Genesee Valley of New York. Sustained winds were measured to 44 mph while gusts to 63 mph were recorded. The winds downed trees and power lines and poles. Tens of thousands were without power.


Not Reported

0/0 A northeast flow of cold air produced lake effect snows then backed to northwest from Sunday afternoon (16th) through Monday afternoon (17th). A strong band of snow developed offshore on Lake Ontario and then moved onshore as the winds backed. Heavy snow fell over Niagara, Orleans, and Monroe counties Sunday night. Bands of moderate to heavy snow continued Monday from eastern Niagara to Wayne counties.


Not Reported

0/0 Low pressure over the Ohio Valley moved to the Virginia coast and then lifted northeast off of the Atlantic Coast. The system brought widespread snowfall to the entire region with eight to fourteen inch reports. Isolated reports of 20" were received due to lake enhancement. The winds, gusting to 40 mph, produced blizzard-like conditions in blowing and drifting snow. In several counties, travel was restricted to emergency vehicles only.


Not Reported

0/0 An intensifying low over Indiana and Ohio on February 28th lifted slowly across Lake Erie. Snow overspread the area during the late afternoon hours of the 28th. It was generally light at first, but became moderate to heavy for a time across the Niagara Frontier and northern Finger Lakes (including Buffalo and Rochester) shortly after midnight. The snow finally tapered off during the



morning and early afternoon hours of March 1st. 4/2/2005 Orleans

County Not Reported

1/0 Deep low pressure over Pennsylvania brought copious amounts of precipitation to western and central New York...falling mainly as rain across much of the area. Rainfalls totals generally ranged from two to three inches. The rain, combined with snowmelt, produced flooding. In Murray, Orleans county, a 50-foot section of the south bank of the Erie Canal collapsed.


0/0 Thunderstorms rolled across the area during the evening and early overnight hours. The storms produced up to five inches of rain in some areas. Centerline, Maxon and Humphrey Roads in Orleans County were closed because of damage and erosion of their shoulders.


0/0 Low pressure, the remains of Hurricane Arlene, moved northeast across the Great Lakes. The bands of showers and thunderstorms produced damage across parts of the Niagara Frontier and Finger Lakes.


0/0 Severe thunderstorms developed ahead of an approaching cold front. The thunderstorms produced measured winds gusting to near 60 mph which downed trees and power lines. Structure fires, reportedly started by lightning, occurred in Medina, Clarendon, Ridgeway and Shelby.*


0/0 A strong cold front crossed the region during the early morning hours. The thunderstorms accompanying the front produced damaging winds that downed trees and power lines. At the peak of the storms, over 30,000 customers were without power.


0/0 A cold front, accompanied by a line of severe thunderstorms, crossed the region during the afternoon hours. The thunderstorm winds downed trees and power lines. Scattered power outages were reported. Hail, up to 3/4" in diameter, fell across parts of the Finger Lakes.*


Not Reported

0/0 Following the passage of a cold front, strong winds developed across the Niagara Frontier. Winds gusted to 66 mph. The winds downed trees and power lines throughout the five county area. At the height of the storm, over 20,000 homes and businesses were without power.


Not Reported

0/1 Low pressure deepened as it tracked northeast into southern Ontario. The strong winds associated with the low downed trees and power lines throughout western New York and the north country. Damage from falling trees to buildings and automobiles was extensive. Over 150,000 were left without power during the peak of the storm. The majority of school districts cancelled classes for the day.

SECTION 6.9: FLOOD Subsection 6.9.A: Definition: Flooding is usually a natural, cyclic occurrence in existing water bodies. When a water body overflows its 'normal' banks, a potentially violent and/or destructive waterway can form. A flash flood is a sudden transformation of a small stream into a violent waterway after heavy rain and/or rapid snowmelt. Subsection 6.9.B: History: There have been 17 major recorded flood incidents in Orleans County between 1993 and 2006, in addition to seasonal flooding events that occur every year. Floods have occurred prior to 1993, but good descriptions of these events are not available. Floods occur throughout



the year, though many occur in the spring as a result of heavy precipitation and melting snow. Typical damage includes flooded basements, closed roads and bridges due to erosion and scouring, and crop damage due to standing water in fields and loss of productive agricultural soils. The map below is excerpted from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan and shows the number of Presidential Disaster Declarations issued for Flood events in New York State.

Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. This map indicates that Orleans County has had three (3) to four (4) Presidential Disaster Declarations for flood events between 1953 and 2007. The map also shows that several counties near Orleans have had a similar number or more such declarations: Monroe and Genesee have each had about the same number, while Niagara and Livingston have had from five (5) to six (6) and Erie has had from seven (7) to eight (8). The map indicates that, on a statewide basis, flood events are not as significant for Orleans County as they are for many other counties, such as those in the Southern Tier or Hudson Valley. For additional information on the flood threat in Orleans County, please refer to Map 12, Flood Zone Areas, at the end of this chapter for detailed information on the location of floodprone areas in Orleans County. This map shows flood hazard areas as depicted on municipal Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). Paper versions of these maps were digitalized by G/FLRPC staff in order to provide this data in electronic format. The Town of Clarendon, while a member of the National Flood Insurance Program, does not have a FIRM. While Clarendon’s representative to the All-Hazard Mitigation Planning



Committee identified an area of the Town that is subject to repeated flooding, a FIRM should be prepared for Clarendon at the same time the FIRMs for the County’s other municipalities are updated. While Orleans County is located along the southern shore of Lake Ontario, the lake is typically not the source of flood events. Storm surges can and have caused damage to marina facilities and lead to increased erosion along parts of the lakeshore, but due to the elevation along the lakeshore, large scale flood events Please see Section 6.15, Landslides, for information on coastal erosion issues in Orleans County. Please consult Section 3.4.1 (Floods Hazard Profile) in the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan for further information on flood hazard information for both the entire State and Orleans County. Subsection 6.9.C: Impacts: Minor flooding regularly occurs throughout the County and, while usually not life threatening, has the potential to cause major crop losses; severe soil erosion; streambank destabilization; damage to infrastructure such as roads, bridges, culverts, sewers, and power lines; damage to vulnerable buildings; and disruption of transportation/communication services. Subsection 6.9.D: Damage: The NCDC database provides estimated damages for region-wide storm events, but does not specify damages inflicted on Orleans County property. Future revisions of the Orleans County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan will include this data as it becomes available. Subsection 6.9.E: Future Probability: 17 events/13 years = 76%. This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. This calculation is flawed in that it relies on only 13 years of data instead of 50 or 100 years, which would lead to a more accurate probability percentage; however, given available data, the high probability determination is the most accurate that can be arrived at. Subsection 6.9.F: Research: Flood data was obtained from the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) and the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. The first flood recorded in this report occurred on March 28th, 1993. Floods Affecting Orleans County from 1993 to 2005 *Indicates information that appears again under another hazard.

Date Municipality Damage ($) Injuries/Fatality Description 3/28/1993 Orleans County Not

Reported 0/0 Flooding reported.*

1/20/1995 Orleans County Not Reported

0/0 Over an inch and a half of rain fell in a short amount of time during the morning hours. Storms sewers were unable to handle the volume of water. Water was 12 to 18 inches deep in parts of both counties flooding lawns, roads and basements. Severe flooding in Albion resulted in a state of emergency being declared in the village.


0/0 Persistent rains of two to three inches fell on already saturated ground. The resulting urban and small stream flooding closed many roads through out the area.*






0/0 Strong thunderstorms produced rainfall amounts between three and five inches in less than a three hour period. Street flooding was reported. In Medina, 30 basements were flooded.*


0/0 Flash Flooding*


0/0 Flash Flooding*


0/0 Thunderstorms developed ahead of a strong cold front and brought high winds and large hail to the region. The high winds downed trees and power lines and caused minor structural damage. The heavy rains that accompanied the storms resulted in minor urban flooding.*


0/0 Western and central New York was drenched with unprecedented January rainfalls over a 36 hour period. The entire region received between two and four inches of rain which fell on bare, saturated ground. The rapid runoff produced urban flooding as well as flooding of many small streams and creeks. Numerous roads throughout the area were closed due to flood waters. Local firefighting and public works departments were called out to pump water from flooded basements. The floodwaters overwhelmed several area wastewater treatment plants and water emergencies were declared. States of Emergency were also declared in various locations within the area. Several school districts cancelled classes. *


0/0 Severe thunderstorms cross the region during the late afternoon hour. The thunderstorms produced heavy downpours, up to three inches in some spots, strong winds and large hail. The heavy downpours resulted in localized poor drainage flooding. The strong winds downed trees and power lines throughout the region. Structure damage was also reported. A thunderstorm which crossed Orleans and Livingston counties produced a swath of hail between one-half and one-mile wide. Windows were broken and siding and shutters were damaged. Hundreds of acres of corn were damaged. The golf ball sized hail covered the ground in spots and remained for several hours.


0/1 Western and central New York were inundated by drenching rains as the remnants of hurricane Frances drifted north across the region on Thursday September 9th. Area wide rainfall totaled 3 to 5 inches with the bulk of it falling in a 6 to 9 hour period from very late Wednesday to midday Thursday. Several creeks in the Buffalo and Rochester areas recorded their greatest flows and highest gage levels ever in a non-winter/spring season. In Cowlesville, Orleans county, a three-year-old boy drowned when he was swept away by flood waters while playing near a stream. His body was recovered further downstream along the banks of Cayuga Creek in Alden.*


1/0 Deep low pressure over Pennsylvania brought copious amounts of precipitation to western and central New



York...falling mainly as rain across much of the area. Rainfalls totals generally ranged from two to three inches. In Murray, Orleans county, a 50-foot section of the south bank of the Erie Canal collapsed.


0/0 Thunderstorms rolled across the area during the evening and early overnight hours. The storms produced up to five inches of rain in some areas. Centerline, Maxon and Humphrey Roads in Orleans County were closed because of damage and erosion of their shoulders.


0/0 Low pressure, the remains of Hurricane Arlene, moved northeast across the Great Lakes. The bands of showers and thunderstorms produced damage across parts of the Niagara Frontier and Finger Lakes. Several streets were impassable from runoff debris. Power outages were scattered throughout the area.*


0/1 Low pressure deepened as it tracked northeast into southern Ontario. The strong winds associated with the low downed trees and power lines throughout western New York and the north country. Damage from falling trees to buildings and automobiles was extensive. Over 150,000 were left without power during the peak of the storm. The majority of school districts cancelled classes for the day.

SECTION 6.10: DROUGHT Subsection 6.10.A: Definition: A prolonged period of limited precipitation affecting the supply and quality of water. Subsection 6.10.B: History: Orleans County has not had major problems with drought in the past. Drought periods that have occurred have been short in duration and did not result in major crop damage or water supply problems. However, due to the importance of agriculture in the County, a major drought event could have serious economic and social consequences. Subsection 6.10.C: Impacts: Droughts do not impact the water supply because the county’s water is mostly drawn from Lakes Ontario and Erie. Droughts could damage crops, leading to reduced yields and reduced income for farmers. Subsection 6.10.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.10.E: Future Probability: Without any recorded past incidents, an accurate future probability determination is not possible. Further details will be included in this Plan as they become available. Subsection 6.10.F: Research: Drought data was obtained from the Orleans County Red Cross, the Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Farm Service Agency, and the Soil & Water Conservation District.



SECTION 6.11: ICE JAM Subsection 6.11.A: Definition: Large accumulation of ice in rivers or streams interrupting the normal flow of water and often leading to flooding conditions and/or damage to structures. Subsection 6.11.B: History: The County has not experienced major problems with ice jams in the past. However, information from municipal officials indicates that ice jams have occurred in the past and have caused minor floods in localized areas. Flooding caused by ice jams is often similar to flash flooding. Ice jam formation causes a rapid rise of water at the jam and extending upstream. Failure or release of the jam causes sudden flooding downstream. The formation of ice jams depends on the weather and physical conditions in river channels. Unlike the typical violent flash flooding occurrences where steep terrain is present, ice jams are most likely to occur where the channel slope naturally decreases, where culverts freeze solid at headwaters of reservoirs, at natural channel restrictions such as bends and bridges, and along shallows where channels may freeze solid. Ice jams are common in the Northeast United States and New York is not an exception, in fact, according to the US Army Corps of Engineers, New York State ranks second in the Nation for total number of ice jam events. Ice jams and resulting floods can occur during fall freeze-up from the formation of frazil ice, during midwinter periods when stream channels freeze solid forming anchor ice, and during spring breakup when rising water levels from snowmelt or rainfall break existing ice cover into large floating masses that lodge at bridges, or other constructions. Damage from ice jam flooding usually exceeds that caused by open water flooding. Flood elevations are usually higher than predicted for free-flow conditions and water levels may change rapidly. Additional physical damage is caused by the force of ice impacting building and other structures. Because of the sometimes unpredictable nature of ice jam floods, FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps often do not reflect ice jam flood threats. Please consult page 3-21 through 3-24 of the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan for further information on ice jam flooding for both the entire State and Orleans County. A map of known ice jam incidents in the State Plan indicates that no ice jams have occurred in Orleans County, although this is not corroborated by locally available information. Subsection 6.11.C: Impacts: Ice jams can lead to flooding that can be responsible for power outages, potable water shortages, damage to infrastructure such as bridge foundations, culverts, and retaining walls, and private property damage. Subsection 6.11.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.11.E: Future Probability: Low Subsection 6.11.F: Research: Information on ice jams was obtained from several sources, including the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, the Orleans County Red Cross, and the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. SECTION 6.12: WILDFIRE Subsection 6.12.A: Definition: An uncontrollable combustion of trees, brush, or grass involving a substantial land area which may have the potential for threatening human life and property.



Subsection 6.12.B: History: No major wildfire incidents have occurred in the past. However, small areas within the County have been affected by wildfires. The wildfire danger is most prevalent in the mucklands in the southern part of County along the Orleans-Genesee county line in the towns of Shelby, Barre, and Clarendon. In the past, there have been several minor field fires which were either extinguished with local resources or burned themselves out without causing major harm. These incidents have not posed major problems for the County as a whole. Subsection 6.12.C: Impacts: Wildfires can damage and destroy crops and damage infrastructure and farm buildings. Subsection 6.12.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.12.E: Future Probability: Insufficient information is currently available to calculate an accurate future probability for the wildfire hazard. Based on what information is available, this hazard should probably be considered a MODERATE hazard. Subsection 6.12.F: Research: Information on Wildfire was obtained from several sources, including the Orleans County Emergency Management Office and the Orleans County Red Cross. SECTION 6.13: HURRICANE Subsection 6.13.A: Definition: Tropical cyclones, formed in the atmosphere over warm ocean areas, in which wind speeds reach 74 miles per hour or more and blow in a large spiral around a relatively calm center or "eye." Circulation is counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. Subsection 6.13.B: History: No hurricanes have ever directly impacted the County. However, Orleans County has suffered from the effects of the remnants of hurricane systems as they passed over New York State. Heavy rains, strong winds, and flooding have all occurred as a result of the remnants of a hurricane system passing over Western New York. Please see Section 6.8, Severe Storms, above for additional information on high wind hazards. Subsection 6.13.C: Impacts: The remnants of hurricane systems have caused heavy rains, strong winds, and flooding, all leading to property damage. Subsection 6.13.D: Damage: Not Reported. Subsection 6.13.E: Future Probability: 3 events/33 years = 9%. This hazard has a LOW probability of occurring. Subsection 6.13.F: Research: Information on hurricanes was obtained from the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC). The first hurricane-related incident recorded in the NCDC’s database and included in this report occurred in June 1972. Hurricanes Affecting Orleans County from 1972 to 2005 *Indicates information that appears again under another hazard.

Date Municipality Damage ($) Injuries/Fatality Description 6/22-25/1972

Orleans County Not Reported

0/0 Orleans County felt the impact of the remnants of Hurricane Agnes, which caused high winds and rain. The county avoided severe damage from flooding.




0/1 Western and central New York were inundated by drenching rains as the remnants of hurricane Frances drifted north across the region on Thursday September 9th. In Cowlesville, Orleans county, a three-year-old boy drowned when he was swept away by flood waters while playing near a stream. His body was recovered further downstream along the banks of Cayuga Creek in Alden.*


0/0 The remains of Hurricane Arlene moved northeast across the Great Lakes. The bands of showers and thunderstorms produced damage across parts of the Niagara Frontier and Finger Lakes. Power outages were scattered throughout the area.*

SECTION 6.14: EPIDEMIC Subsection 6.14.A: Definition: The occurrence or outbreak of disease to an unusual number of individuals or proportion of the population, human or animal. Subsection 6.14.B: History: No epidemics have occurred in recent decades. In the early 1800s, Orleans County’s inhabitants were affected by diseases such as swamp fever and ague. The County was also affected by the worldwide Spanish Influenza pandemic of 1918-1919. According to the Orleans County Health Department, the possibility of a major pandemic is of paramount concern as the County, on its own, does not have the resources to cope with such an event. Should a pandemic such as the Avian Flu or another such disease strike the County, outside assistance would be needed to contain the situation. Subsection 6.14.C: Impacts: Epidemics can cause widespread sickness and death with all of the attendant problems. Subsection 6.14.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.14.E: Future Probability: No major epidemics have occurred in the late twentieth and twenty-first centuries, but County Health Department concerns indicate that the possibility of a future epidemic should be treated as if it were certain to occur in the future. Subsection 6.14.F: Research: Information on epidemics was obtained from municipal officials, the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, the Orleans County Health Department, and the Orleans County Red Cross. SECTION 6.15: LANDSLIDE Subsection 6.15.A: Definition: The downward and outward movement of slope-forming materials reacting to the force of gravity. Slide materials may be composed of natural rock, soil, artificial fill, or combinations of these materials. The term landslide is generalized and includes rock falls, rockslides, creep, block glides, debris slides, earth-flow, mud flow, slump, and other similar terms. Subsection 6.15.B: History: There are no recorded incidents of landslides in Orleans County, but according to local officials some minor landslides have occurred on the bluffs along the lakeshore. The County is mostly flat, level land. The only slopes where landslides could occur are along the lake shore bluffs in the towns of Yates, Carlton and Kendall and along the few ravines cut by creeks flowing into the



lake. However, the slopes of these ravines are thickly wooded and according to local officials they do not pose a landslide threat and do not have a history of landslide problems. Furthermore, municipalities along the lakeshore have adopted local laws to prevent the cutting of trees on steep slopes, thus preventing possible landslide incidents from erosion/slope destabilization. The New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan classifies almost all of Orleans County as having a moderate susceptibility to landslides and low landslide incidence. A narrow strip along the lakeshore is classified as having a high susceptibility to landslides and low landslide incidence. According to the state plan, no recorded landslides incidents have occurred within the County. However, anecdotal evidence from municipal officials in the lakeshore towns suggests that minor landslides have occurred along the lakeshore, although these incidents have not caused significant property damage or loss of life/injury and are considered the result of routine erosion due to wave action. The following map, excerpted from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, provides information on the susceptibility to landslides of different areas within New York State. This map indicates that Orleans County has a moderate susceptibility to landslides and low incidence. A narrow strip along the Lake Ontario shoreline has a moderate rate of landslide incidence.

Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan.



Natural variables that contribute to determining the overall risk of landslide activity in any particular area include soil properties, topographic position and slope, and historical incidence. The landslide hazard susceptibility map on the previous page, created by New York State Emergency Management Office, is based on United States Geological Survey data. The map categorizes the State using color codes provided by the USGS landslide susceptibility map and the NYS GS landslide incidence map. The landslide susceptibility map was created including two (2) primary characteristics that define landslide potential, terrain slopes and soil makeup or type. Soils: Most New York State soil consists of dense glacial till which stands up well to landslide tendency. However, there are certain types of soil that exist throughout the state that have a higher risk of landslide susceptibility and incidence. In particular, glacial lake clay soils which are abundant throughout NYS have a higher risk for landslide occurrence. Terrain: Logically, the steeper the slope the higher risk for landslide occurrence assuming other conditions that lead to landslides are present. However, according to the New York State Geological Survey, landslides can occur with very little slope, sometimes classified as earth slumping or earth flow. The threshold is estimated at 10 degrees slope or higher (> 10 degrees) when the susceptibility becomes significant. Similarly, a tall slope or hill (referred to as a “relief”) would lend to a high risk. Geologists at the NYS geological survey identify relief (height) greater than 40ft as the general threshold where the potential becomes more significant. Triggers: Another significant factor in landslide occurrence is what sets off the landslide or the causes of the landslide (trigger): Causes or triggers of landslides on marginally stable slopes can be both naturally occurring or human induced and includes three (3) primary factors; water saturation of the ground, loading, or increased weight at the top or high end of the slope, and taking away or removing weight from the bottom. The map on the next page, excerpted from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, indicates the approximate location of all known and identified landslides in New York State. The information depicted on this map was compiled from a “Landslide Inventory Map of New York” produced by the New York State Geological Survey in cooperation with the United States Geological Survey. The map is based on reports listed by Alger and Brabb (1985, p. 69-70); unpublished landslide studies by A.R. Eschner, R.H. Fickies and T.J. Robak; and interviews or mail canvasses of Federal, State and Local engineers and geologists. The locations of landslides from these sources were plotted by measuring the distance from landmarks. Large differences in scale, instability of paper source maps, and other technical problems led to errors of as much as one mile in transferring some locations. Therefore, the locations of landslides shown are only approximate. Certainly, many more landslides have occurred in New York that have not been recognized or recorded in public documents. The absence of a landslide symbol on this map, therefore, does not mean that an area is free of landslide. Conversely, the clustering of landslide symbols in an area does not necessarily imply that the area is unsafe, but rather that many landslides have been reported and that prudence requires investigation by qualified geologists and engineers before development takes place. This map should be considered preliminary, because as yet a systematic landslide evaluation of all areas in New York using standard photographic interpretation techniques has not been completed. The following map indicates that no landslides have occurred in Orleans County. However, information from local officials indicates that several small landslides have in fact occurred along the lakeshore in the past, but were not significant enough to be recorded on this map.



Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. Storm-induced shore erosion is a major problem along the Great Lakes shorelines. Caused primarily by storm-induced wave action, and associated long shore currents, the problem becomes critical when high lake levels have submerged the beaches which protect adjoining upland areas that are highly erosion-prone. Raised above the beaches, wave forces can work directly on the toe of bluffs and dunes, resulting in rapid erosion. New York State has more than 1000 miles of coastline bordering the Great Lakes and its connecting rivers. Of these, some 200 miles are subject to significant erosion, with the most critical areas lying along the south shore of Lake Ontario. Property damage caused by erosion of Lake Ontario’s shoreline during high water periods has been estimated in the millions of dollars. While all shore lines are subject to wind, water and gravitational forces of erosion, some shorelines are at greater risk than others. New York State’s Coastal Erosion Hazard Area (CEHA) program was established both to protect lives and property from the threat of coastal erosion as well as protect the natural protective features that mitigate or slow the forces of coastal erosion. In Orleans County, the lakeshore towns of Yates, Carlton, and Kendall are all participants in the CEHA program. The following map, excerpted from the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, provides additional information on the location of coastal erosion hazard areas in the County. As expected, most of the shoreline is considered vulnerable to coastal erosion and landslides that might result.



Source: New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. According to the New York State Geological Survey, very little research has been carried out on the geology of the lake shore bluffs and there is no sound way to assess the potential of landslides on those bluffs. Future research is needed to accurately assess the landslide danger along the lakeshore in Orleans County. Subsection 6.15.C: Impacts: Potential impacts may include flooding, water supply contamination and damage to buildings and infrastructure. Subsection 6.15.D: Damage: Not Reported. Subsection 6.15.E: Future Probability: Subsection 6.15.F: Research: Information on landslides was obtained from municipal officials, the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, the Orleans County Red Cross, the New York State Standard Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, and the New York State Geological Survey. PART II: TECHNOLOGICAL AND HUMAN–CAUSED HAZARD PROFILES SECTION 6.16: TERRORISM Subsection 6.16.A: Definition: The threat or use of violence to achieve political/social ends usually associated with community disruption and/or multiple injuries or deaths. Subsection 6.16.B: History: No incidents of terrorism have occurred in Orleans County in the past. However, due to the county’s position on the U.S./Canadian border, the potential for terrorists to try and enter the U.S. through the county, and the potentially widespread effects of a terrorist attack, local officials believe Orleans County should prepare for the possibility of a terrorist attack. Subsection 6.16.C: Impacts: Terrorism and its unpredictability cause general disruption and fear in the community. Depending on the type of attack, a significant number of lives could be lost and damage done to local infrastructure.



Subsection 6.16.D: Damage: Not Reported. Subsection 6.16.E: Future Probability: There are no reported events, future probability is LOW. However, serious damage and loss of life could occur as a result of terrorist acts in the County. Subsection 6.16.F: Research: Terrorism data was obtained from several sources, including the United States Coast Guard, the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, and the Orleans County Red Cross. SECTION 6.17: DAM FAILURE Subsection 6.17.A: Definition: Structural deterioration, either gradual or sudden, resulting in the facility's inability to control impounded water as designed, resulting in danger to people and/or property in the potential inundation area. Subsection 6.17.B: History: According to the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, there have not been any past incidents of dam failure in Orleans County. The Orleans County Red Cross does not consider Dam Failure to be a significant danger. However, there are three dams in Orleans County that, if they were to fail, could cause serious damage and disruption to the County. These are the Waterport Reservoir/Lake Alice dam, which straddles the Oak Orchard Creek in the Town of Carlton, the Glenwood Lake dam, which straddles the Oak Orchard Creek in the Town of Ridgeway, and the Lyndonville dam, which straddles Johnson Creek in the Village of Lyndonville. Research indicates that these dams do not have a history of problems, but local officials believe that they should be assessed to determine what, if any, upgrades need to be made to them. Subsection 6.17.C: Impacts: Dam Failure could lead to flooding, loss of life, and the destruction of property along watercourses below the dams. The Oak Orchard Creek is a particular concern because of the importance of this creek for tourism and the consequences of dam failure during the tourist season, when the creek bed is filled with fly fishermen. Subsection 6.17.D: Damage: Not Reported. Subsection 6.17.E: Future Probability: There are no reported past events of dam failure in the County; however, while future probability is LOW, the potential damages from a dam failure could be severe. Subsection 6.17.F: Research: Information on Dam Failure was obtained from the Orleans County Red Cross and the County Emergency Management Office, as well as from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. SECTION 6.18: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS – FIXED SITE Subsection 6.18.A: Definition: The uncontrolled release of material from a stationary facility, which when released can result in death or injury to people and/or damage to property and the environment through the material's flammability, toxicity, corrosiveness, chemical instability and/or combustibility. Subsection 6.18.B: History: According to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Spills Database, there have been approximately 650 fixed site hazmat incidents in Orleans County between 1978 and 2005. These incidents have occurred frequently every year. The most common materials spilled include diesel fuel, gasoline, agricultural chemicals and fertilizers, substances such as



vinegar that are used in local food processing plants, and other petroleum products. These incidents have occurred county-wide, though most frequently in Albion and Medina. Subsection 6.18.C: Impacts: Hazmat fixed site spills typically cause soil, water and air contamination. Less frequent but possible impacts also include fires and utility failures. Subsection 6.18.D: Damage: Costs not provided. Subsection 6.18.E: Future Probability: 650 event/27 years = 2407%. This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. Subsection 6.18.F: Research: Hazmat fixed site data was obtained from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Spills Database. SECTION 6.19: WATER SUPPLY CONTAMINATION Subsection 6.19.A: Definition: The contamination or potential contamination of surface or subsurface public water supply by chemical or biological materials that results in restricted or diminished ability to use the water source. Subsection 6.19.B: History: According to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Spills Database, there have been about 250 incidents of water supply contamination in Orleans County between 1979 and 2006. The majority of these incidents have been due to hazmat spills and flooding, and most have not contaminated drinking water supplies, although the potential exists. These incidents have occurred county-wide. Subsection 6.19.C: Impacts: Water supply contamination has resulted in water contamination, fish kills, and algae. A major water supply contamination could cascade into an epidemic and cause serious disruption to typical daily activities. Subsection 6.19.D: Damage: Costs not provided. Subsection 6.19.E: Future Probability: 250 events/27 years = 926%. This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. Subsection 6.19.F: Research: Water supply contamination data was obtained from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Spills Database beginning in 1978. SECTION 6.20: UTILITY FAILURE Subsection 6.20.A: Definition: Loss of electric and/or natural gas supply, telephone service or public water supply as a result of an internal system failure and not by the effects of disaster agents. Subsection 6.20.B: History: According to the Orleans County Computer Services Department, minor utility failures occur relatively frequently and throughout the county. Most utility failures have been the result of a severe or winter storm and are rarely the result of an internal system failure. The only widespread utility failure occurred in August 2003, when much of the northeast region lost power due to an unprecedented internal system failure.



Subsection 6.20.C: Impacts: Utility failures have caused power outages and have left people without telephone services, heat and fuel. Utility failures have also disrupted routine governmental and business operations. Utility failure may cascade into problems such as water supply contamination, air contamination, civil unrest, fire, and explosion. Subsection 6.20.D: Damage: Not Reported Subsection 6.20.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. Subsection 6.20.F: Research: Information on utility failure was obtained from a variety of sources, including the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, the Orleans County Department of Computer Services, and the Orleans County Red Cross. SECTION 6.21: FIRE Subsection 6.21.A: Definition: The uncontrolled burning in residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, or other structures in developed area. Subsection 6.21.B: History: Fires have occurred frequently throughout Orleans County’s history. Most fires have occurred due to lighting strikes, electrical problems, faulty equipment such as water and space heaters, and human error/negligence. All buildings in the county are vulnerable to fires, although the danger is greater in densely developed areas, especially in the villages and hamlets. Fires can cascade into problems including explosion, air contamination, and structural damage. Subsection 6.21.C: Impacts: Fires have caused structural damage and fatalities. The Orleans County Red Cross reports that it responds to about 20 fires per year, typically in single family homes or small multi-family homes. Subsection 6.21.D: Damage: Not Reported. Subsection 6.21.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. Subsection 6.21.F: Research: Terrorism data was obtained from a variety of sources, including the Orleans County Emergency Management Office and the Orleans County Red Cross. SECTION 6.22: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS – IN TRANSIT Subsection 6.22.A: Definition: The uncontrolled release of materials during transport, which when released can result in death or injury to people and/or damage to property and the environment through the material's flammability, toxicity, corrosiveness, chemical instability and/or combustibility. Subsection 6.22.B: History: There have been about 240 hazmat-in-transit incidents in Orleans County between 1978 and 2005, occupying multiple times each year and including trains, commercial vehicles, and automobiles. The most common elements spilled include diesel, gasoline, and other petroleum products. These spills may cascade into problems including water contamination, air contamination, fire, explosion and transportation accidents. These incidents have occurred county-wide, but tend to be concentrated on major transportation routes and on navigable waterways.



Subsection 6.22.C: Impacts: Hazmat in transit often caused water, soil and air contamination. Subsection 6.22.D: Damage: Costs not reported. Subsection 6.22.E: Future Probability: 240 events/27 years = 889%. This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. Subsection 6.22.F: Research: Hazmat in transit data was obtained from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Spills Database beginning in 1978. It is highly likely that other spills occurred prior to his date, but those records are not readily available. SECTION 6.23: OIL SPILL Subsection 6.23.A: Definition: The uncontrolled or accidental discharge of petroleum into water and/or onto land. Subsection 6.23.B: History: There have been approximately 320 reported oil spills in Orleans County between 1978 and 2005. These spills have occurred throughout the county, but the majority occurred in and around Albion and Medina. These oil spills are primarily the result of traffic accidents, equipment failure, and human error. Regardless of the cause most of these spills resulted in soil contamination and in some instances surface or groundwater contamination as well. Cascade effects could include fire, explosion, transportation accident, and water supply contamination. Subsection 6.23.C: Impacts: Oil spills often caused water, soil and air contamination. Subsection 6.23.D: Damage: Costs not provided. Subsection 6.23.E: Future Probability: 320 events/27 years = 1185%. This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. Subsection 6.23.F: Research: Oil spills data was obtained from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Spills Database beginning in 1978. It is likely that other spills occurred prior to his date, but those records are not readily available. SECTION 6.24: TRANSPORTATION ACCIDENT Subsection 6.24.A: Definition: A mishap involving one or more conveyances on land, sea, and/or in the air which results in mass casualties and/or substantial loss of property. Subsection 6.24.B: History: Transportation accidents have occurred regularly and frequently in the county. They tend to be automobile and truck accidents. Major accidents tend to occur on state routes during the winter due to poor driving conditions. Hazard prone intersections include: Rt. 31A and Rt. 63, Rt. 31A and Rt. 237, Rt. 31 and Rt. 98, and Rt. 104 and County Line Rd. According to the Orleans County Red Cross, while train derailments and airplane crashes are possible, they are not a major concern for the county.



Subsection 6.24.C: Impacts: Transportation accidents have caused spills of hazardous materials; air, soil and water contamination; infrastructure and property damage; and human injuries and fatalities. Subsection 6.24.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.24.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. Subsection 6.24.F: Research: Information on transportation accidents was obtained from several sources, including the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, the Orleans County Red Cross, and the New York State Department of Transportation. SECTION 6.25: EXPLOSION Subsection 6.25.A: Definition: The threat or actual detonation of an explosive device or material with the potential of inflicting serious injury to people or damage to property. Subsection 6.25.B: History: Explosions have not happened often or on a regular basis. Installations handling industrial and hazardous materials are the facilities most susceptible to explosions. Subsection 6.25.C: Impacts: Explosions can cause fires, air contamination, injuries and fatalities. Subsection 6.25.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.25.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a LOW probability of occurring. Subsection 6.25.F: Research: Information on explosions was obtained from several sources, including the Orleans County Emergency Management Office and the Orleans County Red Cross. SECTION 6.26: CIVIL UNREST Subsection 6.26.A: Definition: An individual or collective action causing serious interference with the peace, security, and/or functioning of a community (e.g., riot). Subsection 6.26.B: History: There have not been any major civil unrest incidents in Orleans County. However, the possibility exists of such incidents occurring in the future. Subsection 6.26.C: Impacts: Potential impacts may include fires, explosions, property damage and rioting. Subsection 6.26.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.26.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a LOW probability of occurring. Subsection 6.26.F: Research: Information on civil unrest incidents was obtained from several sources, including the Orleans County Emergency Management Office and the Orleans County Red Cross.



SECTION 6.27: AIR CONTAMINATION Subsection 6.27.A: Definition: This is pollution caused by atmospheric conditions such as a temperature inversion induced smoggy condition sufficiently serious to create some danger to human health. Subsection 6.27.B: History: According to the NYS DEC Spills Database, there have been about 60 incidents of air contamination in Orleans County between 1978 and 2006. These incidents have occurred county-wide and tend to be the result of HAZMAT spills. Overall, these incidents have resulted in localized damage but have not caused major problems for the county as a whole. Orleans County is a rural area and does not have smog problems. Subsection 6.27.C: Impacts: Air contamination could lead to health problems, especially with regards to breathing. Subsection 6.27.D: Damage: Costs not provided. Subsection 6.27.E: Future Probability: 60 events/27 years = 222%. This hazard has a HIGH probability of occurring. Subsection 6.27.F: Research: Air contamination incidents data was obtained from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Spills Database beginning in 1978. SECTION 6.28: STRUCTURAL COLLAPSE Subsection 6.28.A: Definition: A sudden structural failing, partial or fully, of buildings, bridges or tunnels, threatening human life and health. Subsection 6.28.B: History: In the past, structural collapse has occurred as the result of major storm events, fires, or the lack of proper maintenance. No instances involving severe property damage or loss of life are known of in Orleans County. Subsection 6.28.C: Impacts: Structural collapse causes property damage and destruction, injury/loss of life, and disruption to normal daily activities. Subsection 6.28.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.28.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a LOW probability of occurring. Subsection 6.28.F: Research: Information on Structural Collapse was obtained from the Orleans County Emergency Management Office and the Orleans County Red Cross. SECTION 6.29: RADIOLOGICAL – IN TRANSIT Subsection 6.29.A: Definition: A release or threat of release of radioactive material from a transportation vehicle including truck, rail, air, and marine vehicle. Subsection 6.29.B: History: No incidents of radiological in-transit accidents have been reported in Orleans County.



Subsection 6.29.C: Impacts: No impacts, though potential impacts may include water, soil and air contamination. Subsection 6.29.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.29.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a LOW probability of occurring. Subsection 6.29.F: Research: Radiological fixed site data was obtained from the Wayne County Multi-Jurisdictional All-Hazard Mitigation Plan (G/FLRPC, 2005). Information was also obtained from the Orleans County Emergency Management Office and the Orleans County Red Cross. SECTION 6.30: FUEL SHORTAGE Subsection 6.30.A: Definition: A situation in which the normal quantity and/or timely delivery of fuel supplies to distributors and retail establishments is interrupted. Subsection 6.30.B: History: No major incidents of fuel shortage have occurred in the past. Subsection 6.30.C: Impacts: Temporary shifts in fuel sources, prices and availability, which could lead to the disruption of typical daily activities. Subsection 6.30.D: Damage: Costs not provided. Subsection 6.30.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a LOW probability of occurring. Subsection 6.30.F: Research: Fuel shortage data was obtained from the Orleans County Emergency Management Office and the Orleans County Red Cross. SECTION 6.31: RADIOLOGICAL - FIXED SITE Subsection 6.31.A: Definition: A release or threat of release of radioactive material from a nuclear power generating station or research reactor or other stationary source of radioactivity. Subsection 6.31.B: History: There are two active nuclear power plants within a 50 mile radius of Orleans County. The nearest is the Robert E. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant, located in Wayne County, New York. The second is the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, located in Pickering (a suburb of Toronto), Ontario, Canada. There has been one fixed site radiological incident at the Ginna plant, occurring in 1982. The incident was carefully managed; no radiation was released off site and little to no damage was done to the facility. Information on past accidents at the Pickering station was not available for this report. The potential for a radiological incident that could affect Orleans County is present. Fixed site radiological incidents may cascade into problems such as air contamination, water supply contamination, explosion and fire. Subsection 6.31.C: Impacts: No incidents have occurred in Orleans County, although potential impacts may include water, soil and air contamination, as well as necessitating the evacuation of residents. Subsection 6.31.D: Damage: Costs not provided. Subsection 6.31.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a LOW probability of occurring.



Subsection 6.31.F: Research: Radiological fixed site data was obtained from the Wayne County Multi-Jurisdictional All-Hazard Mitigation Plan (G/FLRPC, 2005). Information was also obtained from the Orleans County Emergency Management Office and the Orleans County Red Cross. SECTION 6.32: FOOD SHORTAGE Subsection 6.32.A: Definition: A situation where the normal distribution pattern and/or the timely delivery of foodstuffs to retail establishments for normal consumer demand is interrupted for a substantial period of time. Subsection 6.32.B: History: There are no reported incidents of food shortages occurring in the County. Subsection 6.32.C: Impacts: Food shortages could cause civil unrest and lead to the disruption of typical daily activities. Subsection 6.32.D: Damage: Not reported. Subsection 6.32.E: Future Probability: This hazard has a LOW probability of occurring. Subsection 6.32.F: Research: Information on food shortages was obtained from the Orleans County Emergency Management Office and the Orleans County Red Cross.

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Orleans County Multi-Jurisdictional All-Hazard Mitigation Plan · 2020-01-30 · Orleans County Multi-Jurisdictional All-Hazard Mitigation Plan Prepared by the Genesee/Finger Lakes