Wintry weather has made travel difficult across the region this evening.
Areas of heavy snow — with snowfall rates of up to two to three inches per hour — over portions of northeastern Long Island and all areas north of New York City have reduced visibilities to below a quarter of a mile, according to the National Weather Service.
Riverhead Highway Department crews are out plowing the main roads, Highway Superintendent George Woodson said tonight.
“It’s supposed to start raining soon and we’re hoping that will wash most of the accumulating snow away,” Woodson said.
He urged motorists to use extra caution and drive slow.
Vehicles became stranded at the bottom of Baiting Hollow Hill on Sound Avenue, Woodson said. “So far, that’s the only real problem we’ve seen.”
The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning late this afternoon. The warning is in effect from 9 p.m. tonight until 6 a.m. tomorrow. Winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts of up to 60 mph are forecast.
A coastal flood advisory is also in effect from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. Friday for minor coastal flooding in “vulnerable locations along Peconic Bay, including Riverhead and the twin forks of eastern Long Island,” the weather service said. Tidal departures of about three feet above astronomical tides are expected, according to the forecast. Inundation of around one to two feet above ground level is expected in low-lying, vulnerable areas.
The survival of local journalism depends on your support.
We are a small family-owned operation. You rely on us to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Just a few dollars can help us continue to bring this important service to our community.
Support RiverheadLOCAL today.
