Storm Hits Islip Town, Over 2.4K Power Outages Reported

TOWN OF ISLIP, NY — As Tropical Storm Isaias makes its way across Long Island, the Town of Islip is preparing to be hit by the worst of the storm Tuesday afternoon. Residents are advised to prepare for high winds and rain throughout the afternoon. In addition, a tornado watch is in effect for Long Island until 4 p.m. Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone urged residents to stay off the roads and stay inside if possible.

As of 1 :15 p.m., the storm has already caused 2,435 reported power outages within Islip Town, according to the PSEG Long Island map. Supervisor Angie Carpenter said that town officials have a plan in place to help keep residents safe during the storm.

"Drains have been cleared, our equipment is ready and staff are positioned to respond," she said. "We will be working collaboratively with various Town departments to ensure the public's safety, and that our roads are cleared and passable."

The town's Emergency Management Office has been staffed and operational since 8 a.m. All tankers, hydraulic pumps, chainsaws, pay loaders and tree removal equipment are fueled and ready to use. Crews have been paying close attention to the town’s low-lying areas. The Town's department of Public Works began assessing Town equipment last week based on the long-range forecast and hurricane season.

Local park rangers, marina guards and harbor patrol have been inspecting marinas to help boaters tie up loose boats, and will continue patrols through the overnight, checking for inundation and flooding in Bay Shore, Maple Avenue and Bayport Beach.

Photo courtesy of the Town of Islip

Islip officials are also maintaining constant contact with their counterparts on Fire Island, and as of Tuesday afternoon have reported that beaches are wide and no erosion has occurred.

"The speed of the storm and its western migration should help mitigate any damage in our area," Carpenter said.

Restaurant owners who received outdoor dining/tent permits are asked to complete all preparedness steps immediately, if they haven't already done so. In addition, homeowners should secure outdoor furniture, barbecues, umbrellas and any object that could become a projectile. For downed trees residents should call at 631-224-5600. Residents can PSEG LI for downed wires or power outages at 800-490-0075 or Suffolk County at 311.