BROOKLYN/HICKSVILLE, NY – National Grid is prepared in anticipation of the severe thunderstorms forecasted to impact the region tonight. Meteorologists are predicting strong winds with potentially damaging gusts, as well as dangerous lightning.

Natural gas is distributed through an underground system that typically operates uninterrupted, even in severe weather.  National Grid doesn’t anticipate any impacts and has taken steps to respond quickly and safely if needed:

• Closely monitor the storm system
• Review extreme weather plan checklist
• Ensure adequate staffing to perform flood patrols if needed
• Coordination with emergency management officials

The safety of customers is always the top priority for National Grid and the company wants customers to take the proper precautions.  Severe thunderstorms may bring strong winds, heavy rain, and hail. Strong winds can cause flying debris and turn unsecured objects into projectiles. Exercise caution when walking, biking, or driving. Remain alert for threatening weather and possible warnings.

In the event of a gas emergency or if customers smell gas National Grid advises customers to call 911 or National Grid 24-hour gas emergency numbers:  for Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island at 718-643-4050; for Long Island and the Rockaway Peninsula at 1-800-490-0045.

For safety tips visit National Grid’s website:  for New York City  for Long Island.  For up to date information Visit our website: www.nationalgridus.com, follow us on Twitter and friend us on Facebook.

About National Grid

About National Grid: National Grid (NYSE: NGG) is an electricity, natural gas, and clean energy delivery company serving more than 20 million people through our networks in New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. National Grid is transforming our electricity and natural gas networks with smarter, cleaner, and more resilient energy solutions to meet the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

For more information, please visit our website, follow us on Twitter, watch us on YouTube, friend us on Facebook, and find our photos on Instagram.