Cuomo: With Lockout Over, Con Ed on Call for Storm [UPDATE]

Update (4:45 p.m.) -- The Con Ed lockout has come to a close, according to reports. Workers will be in the field Thursday evening after an almost month-long lockout to help mitigate storm damage.

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Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Con Ed workers on lockout are returning to work today to prepare for a big storm that's expected to hit our area tonight.

"Due to the potential safety issues and emergency response needs that may result from the storm, earlier this morning I met with the leadership of Con Ed and Local 1-2 of the Utility Workers of America," Cuomo said. "At my request and in the interest of the safety of New Yorkers, Con Ed and Local 1-2 have agreed that the necessary personnel will immediately return to work to prepare for the possibility of an approaching storm and will remain on the job for the duration of any emergency and any following repairs."

Cuomo said Con Ed and Local 1-2 will continue to work aggressively to reach a full contract agreement.

"I want to thank President Harry Farrell of Local 1-2 of the Utility Workers of America, President of the International Union of UAW Michael Langford, and Con Edison President and CEO Kevin Burke for coming together and putting the interests of the people first," Cuomo said.

The National Weather Service issued an updated weather advisory this morning that warned of strong thunderstorms passing through the state throughout the day, primarily in the southern areas of upstate New York and the New York City area.

This morning, Cuomo activated the State Emergency Operations Center, where Homeland Security Commissioner Jerome Hauer is stationed throughout the day and night.

"New Yorkers should be especially aware of the weather conditions when making their travel plans today and monitor local news reports and weather alerts throughout the day," Cuomo said.

Here's the latest from the National Weather Service:

Today: A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 p.m. Some storms could be severe, with large hail, damaging winds, and heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 91. South wind around 11 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Tonight: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 1 a.m. Some storms could be severe, with large hail, damaging winds, and heavy rain. Cloudy, with a low around 75. West wind 5 to 9 mph becoming light southwest after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Check back with Patch for updates on:

• power outages
• road closures
• commuter delays
• emergency operations centers
• shelters
• openings/closings

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