Islip Supervisor Tom Croci has activated the Town's Emergency Operations Center as the blizzard's strong winds and heavy snow engulf the area.
"The combination of heavy snow, flooding and high winds could leave many residents without power and emergency vehicle access. Roads will be extremely hazardous and I ask that residents stay off the roads to allow our crews to do their jobs," said Croci in a written statement.
More than 125 town vehicles are prepared to run throughout the blizzard, with an additional 80 contractors and 205 pieces of heavy equipment brought in to help clear the town roadways. Town crews have been deployed to plow roads, clear downed trees and improve neighborhood access for emergency vehicles.
In addition to forecasts calling for 6 inches to 12 inches of snow or more, residents in coastal areas should be aware that high tides are expected to be 2 feet to 5 feet above average on Friday, from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m, according to Islip officials.
The Town will send out specialized vehicles equipped with pumps to neighborhoods that are vulnerable to flooding, such as Seaquams Lane neighborhood in West Islip.
"More rain could mean less snow, but roads will remain dangerous because of the low temperatures expected to last throughout the storm," Croci said.
As during Hurricane Sandy, Town officials will have a representative from LIPA/National Grid with them so they can have direct communication and access with the utility company. This will allow Islip to track utility crews and monitor their progress in the event of a power outage.
Residents may report outages or downed wires by calling 1-800-490-0075.
The last flights left MacArthur Airport at 3:20 p.m. Friday, with the next expected inbound flight not until 6:15 p.m. Saturday. Travelers are encouraged to call their airlines for delays and cancellations.
All parks and recreational programs scheduled for Saturday and Sunday have been cancelled, including all Islip Arts Council programs and events.
