Cortland, NY – Rising water along the Tioughnioga River could trigger minor flooding across parts of Cortland County beginning late Tuesday night, with some road closures possible south of the city by Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, a Flood Warning remains in effect for the Tioughnioga River at Cortland from late Tuesday night through Thursday evening. River levels were measured at 5.0 feet as of 9 a.m. Tuesday but are expected to steadily climb overnight.
The river is forecast to exceed the 8.0-foot flood stage late Tuesday night and crest near 8.5 feet early Wednesday afternoon. At those levels, water may begin affecting low-lying areas and could lead to closures along Kellogg Road south of Cortland.
Local officials are urging residents to remain cautious near rivers and streams as runoff continues moving through the watershed. Drivers should watch for water covering rural roadways and avoid flooded areas entirely.
Emergency managers stress that even shallow water can sweep vehicles away. Motorists who encounter flooded roads should turn around and find alternate routes rather than attempting to cross.
Water levels are expected to gradually recede Wednesday night and drop below flood stage Thursday morning, though elevated river flows could continue into Thursday evening. Additional updates from the National Weather Service are expected later Tuesday.
