#320. Approaching hurricane in NYC

Hurricane Irene is expected to hit the U.S. in North Carolina and then move up the east coast towards NYC and also Washington & southern New England, affecting more than 80 million people, including Xavi (and probably Gerard & Anne). "Once-in-a-generation" weather is expected in NYC on Saturday night into Sunday, with 200-250 mm rain expected and 130-160 kph winds. Nothing like New Orleans and Katrina thankfully, but low lying areas of NYC are being recommended to evacuate and the MTA will be shut down tomorrow afetrnoon.

The hospital is putting its severe weather contingency plans into operation (mainly because flooding will affect staff coming to work):
HURRICANE IRENE PREPARATIONS
MSKCC has activated the Hospital Incident Command System (HICS) and implemented the Hurricane Contingency Plan. It is anticipated that the Center will be fully operational during the storm period. Staff are requested to report to work at their regularly scheduled time and location and to contact their supervisors if delayed. Please review personal and family preparedness plans, the hurricane checklist and planning resources located on the emergency management webpage. Please keep monitoring MSKCC websites and the MSKCC Employee Emergency Information Line 646-888-INFO (4636) for updates and additional information.
In preparation of Hurricane Irene, we ask that you remove all items (furniture, plants, bicycles, etc.) from your patio, terrace, balcony and/or outdoor window sills. Such items can be blown away by high winds which could potentially cause injury or property damage. Please ensure that all windows and doors leading to outdoor areas are securely closed. Additionally, please be sure that all patio and terrace drains are clear of debris.
Thank you for your cooperation.

...Sounds like i will have to empty the rain gauge several times (assuming it doesn't get blown away).

this interactive map shows the projected path of the storm and the areas at risk of flooding. the links work.