Officials Urge Residents To Stay Off Roads In 'Severe' Storm

NORTH FORK, NY — With Saturday's storm slated to bring winds of up to 50 miles per hours, near blizzard conditions, and almost 2-feet of snow to the North Fork, Southold Town officials are urging residents to stay off the roads.

Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell said with the "severe" forecast, including snow accumulation and heavy winds, the town has taken precautions and has worked to prepare.

First off, all recreational programs and buildings will be closed Saturday; the Southold Town transfer station will be closed, as well.

A non-medical needs shelter for at-risk elderly will be on standby in response to possible power outages. If you or someone you know has sheltering needs, contact the Southold Town Police Department at 631-765-2600. Dial 911 for emergencies only.

Russell said the town has coordinated with PSEG LI; equipment and crews will be in Southold to "ensure a swift response to any power outages," he said.

Russell said that residents should have staples in place and be prepared to shelter indoors during the event and possibly for an extended period of time.

According to the supervisor, the office of emergency management has urged residents to stay off the roads and shelter in place for the duration of the weather event. Residents are asked to keep the roads clear for highway department crews and emergency service workers to do their jobs by removing all vehicles, equipment and debris.

And, Russell said, once the snow has passed, residents are asked to keep sidewalks and fire hydrants clear.