State Of Emergency Declared In Southampton Town

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — Southampton Town Supervisor Maria Moore has declared a state of emergency, effective at 3 a.m. Sunday, due to the winter storm.

The state of emergency is in effect for 30 days, unless rescinded sooner or extended.

"This State of Emergency has been declared due to emergency conditions produced by the expectation of heavy snowfall and other inclement weather. Such conditions threaten and/or imperil the public safety of the citizens of the Town of Southampton. The National Weather Service has issued watches, warnings and advisories associated with this weather system. The National Weather Service reports that snowfall totals of between 6 to 12 inches may be possible for the Town of Southampton or portions thereof, with the possibility amounts over 12 inches possible on a localized basis," the declaration said.

Snowfall rates of a half inch or greater per hour may be possible during this weather event. The snow may also be coupled with gusty winds at times. The combination of snowfall and gusty winds may negatively impact visibility on roadways. The snowfall is also forecast to be coupled with, as well as followed by, very cold temperatures, the declaration said.

"Such conditions threaten and/or imperil the public safety of the citizens of the Town of Southampton," Moore said, directing town departments "to take whatever steps necessary to protect life, property, and public infrastructure, and to perform other emergency assistance as deemed necessary."

Ryan Murphy, town code compliance and emergency management administrator, said the storm is expected to create "hazardous conditions."

"In an effort to direct all necessary resources to snow plowing and snow removal operations, and to discourage drivers from being out on the roadways during the storm," Murphy said all town facilities normally open on Sundays will be closed effective, beginning at 5 a.m., when the precipitation associated with this storm is anticipated to begin. Essential employees involved with storm response and public safety will still be performing their necessary operational roles during this time that other facilities are closed, he said.

The town will be monitoring the storm and all response efforts and will be evaluating any impacts to the town’s normal weekday operations during the day tomorrow. Any alterations to Monday facility openings will be communicated to the public via Notify Me, the town website, social media, officials said.