New York City residents rely on utilities for many daily activities, from showers, powering computer systems, to operating life support systems. Weather, human error, or network disruptions can interrupt these services. While many utility disruptions are temporary and harmless, some disruptions can have devastating effects on individuals, communities, and the City.

Many New Yorkers remember the blackout of August 2003 that left the entire City without power. Some will recall the Astoria, Queens, water main break that submerged several blocks, interrupted businesses, and damaged homes and commercial property. Since then New York City has assembled task forces to refine procedures and avoid catastrophic damage from utility emergencies.

When power, water or telecommunications are disrupted, New York City implements its emergency procedures and monitors critical areas such as healthcare, transportation and infrastructure. Emergency managers from OEM, partner city agencies, and utility providers follow guidelines to restore service quickly. These guidelines are regularly updated and revised, to incorporate new technologies and information. 

POWER DISRUPTION GUIDE

In 2004, New York City OEM revised the Power Disruption Operations Guide, taking in to account lessons learned from 2003 Blackout. This guide outlines how the City coordinates with City agencies to continue daily business and power companies to repair service to areas with brownouts or complete loss of power.

WATER MAIN BREAK TASK FORCE

In 2005, OEM convened the Water Main Break Task Force, which consists of 20 agencies, to examine how the city responds to the nearly 600 annual water main breaks in New York City.

In addition to the written plans and protocols, OEM continues to work with utility providers, city agencies, and construction organizations to distribute construction advisories and additional safety measures.

New York City cannot prevent all utility disruptions, but the City can respond to these inconveniences as soon as they are reported.  You can help expedite restoration by calling 311 to report a utility disruption.

If you own a small business and your business facility sustains damage due to a water main break, contact the Department of Small Business Services to find out if you qualify for the City Business Assistance Program.