Nassau County issues warning to residents
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman held a press conference on Saturday to warn residents about an incoming Nor'easter storm that could produce high winds, heavy rainfall, power outages, and flash flooding over Columbus Day weekend.
Blakeman will activate the County's Emergency Operations Center at 8 a.m. on Sunday to respond to the storm. He said that he and other local officials will be closely monitoring the storm and are fully prepared for any eventuality.
"You never know what the intensity or the strength of the storm will be until it actually happens. It's nature. We monitor the situation very closely. We'll prepare for the worst and hope for the best," County Executive Blakeman said.
Nassau County, the Office of Emergency Management, and other local departments are taking active measures to protect residents and property.
Officials are strategically placing over 20 high-axle vehicles in areas prone to flooding to facilitate emergency responses. The Department of Public Works will also be using pumps to move water out of flooded zones and putting out barricades to prevent access to dangerous areas.
Residents are urged to please stay home, and if you must go out, do not drive through a flooded area.
"It may look like you can drive through it. It may look like it's shallow, but it could be very deep," Blakeman said.
In addition to sheltering at home, residents are being urged to check on family members and neighbors once conditions become safer. In the event of a power outage or downed power lines, call PSEG Long Island's 24-hour Electric service number at 800-490-0075. Do not approach downed power lines yourself.
To allow emergency personnel to be most effective, do not tie up emergency phone lines with non-emergency calls.
