Before Storm, Southampton Supervisor Urges Residents to Stay Out of Surf

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — As Hermine churns its deadly path toward Southampton, town officials are battening down the hatches and working diligently to keep residents safe.

On Saturday, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone declared a state of emergency in Suffolk. Officials have also issued a voluntary evacuation of Fire Island.

A tropical storm warning is now in effect for Long Island as Hermine, now classified as a tropical depression, makes its way up the East Coast.

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Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman said concerns include beach erosion, coastal flooding and power outages.

"We're likely going to see some scouring of the shoreline and flooding on Dune Road," Schneiderman said.

Erosion is also a concern in Sagaponack, he said, adding that currently, the beaches are in good shape. "I'd hate to lose all that sand that's built up."

Schneiderman said he's asked New York State to provide a high-axle vehicle, such as a Humvee; the town currently only has one such vehicle.

On Saturday, the supervisor said he would continue closely monitoring the situation.

He urged people to stay out of the water. "It may end up being mandatory, depending on the riptides," Schneiderman said. "People should not go into the ocean as of tomorrow. There are some very dangerous riptides."

The supervisor said he's had multiple conversations with PSEG, town police, and Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services.

"There are still a lot of unknowns," Schneiderman said.

The supervisor said while Bellone has declared a state of emergency, Southampton hasn't "filed suit yet."

Schneiderman said he may coordinate a conference call with key town employees to "make sure all the gears are moving in unison."