Today’s the day to prepare for the arrival of Henri, a strong tropical storm that is expected to intensify as it moves up the coast today and make landfall on Long Island Sunday, either as a Category 1 hurricane or a strong tropical storm.
The current National Weather Service forecast is calling for landfall of a Category 1 hurricane with the track of the eye forecast to pass over Calverton on its way across the island. The actual track and intensity of the storm depends on variables that can’t yet be nailed down, so the entire region is keeping a close eye on National Hurricane Center reports later today following scheduled reconnaissance flights.
Forecasters are predicting severe beach erosion and a dangerous storm surge with Henri. Tonight is a full moon and local high tide times (around midnight tonight and midday tomorrow) may correspond to the arrival of the storm, adding up to extra risk of flooding.
Before the storm: pack, plan & pay attention
While we wait, take time to get ready for Henri. Here’s a compilation of suggestions from the National Weather Service, the American Red Cross and the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services:
Secure loose objects in your yard. Put away outdoor furniture, trash cans, tools and hanging plants. Make sure your phone and other electronic devices are charged. Important documents should be stored in a waterproof container. Examples: insurance policies, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc. Also, checkbook, cash, credit cards, ATM cards.
Pack an emergency kit with supplies you may need, including first aid supplies, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, battery-powered radio, a multi-purpose tool, sanitation and personal hygiene items, pet supplies, extra set of car and house keys, extra N95 or surgical masks, towels, rain gear, work gloves.
Prepare to secure your home if it is damaged in the storm. Have on hand: plastic sheeting, tools, household bleach.
Have on hand a three-day supply of food and water for each member of your household and a seven-day supply of any medications.
Plan with your household members what to do and where to meet if you become separated.
Identify responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team.
Plan what to do if you have to evacuate.
Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly and homebound.
Bring pets indoors.
Pay attention: Listen to local officials for recommended preparedness actions, including possible evacuation. If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately.
If you are not under evacuation orders, assess the risk from wind, falling trees and flooding at your location. Make sure you are in a safe location before the onset of strong winds or possible flooding.
Download the PSEG-LI mobile app to report an outage and receive information on restoration times, crew locations and more.
During the storm
Failure to adequately shelter may result in serious injury or loss of life. Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with any orders that are issued. Remember that during the storm 9 1 1 Emergency Services may not be able to immediately respond if conditions are unsafe. This should be a big factor in your decision making.
If winds become strong:
- Stay away from windows and doors even if they are covered. Take refuge in a small interior room, closet or hallway.
- Close all interior doors. Secure and brace external doors.
- If you are in a two-story house, go to an interior first-floor room, such as a bathroom or closet.
- If you are in a multiple-story building and away from the water, go to the first or second floors and take refuge in the halls or other interior rooms away from the windows.
- Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.
- Remain indoors during the hurricane. Do not be fooled by the “eye” or the lull that occurs as the storm center moves overhead. The other side of the hurricane “eye” has winds that will rapidly increase and will come from the opposite direction.
After the storm
Remember: Consider all downed wires to be energized. Stay clear and call 9 1 1.
To report an outage or downed wire call PSEG-LI’s 24-hour Electric Service number: 800-490-0075.
Useful Links
Download the New York State Disaster Assistance Handbook
The handbook contains useful resources with contact information for disaster assistance.
NYS Homeland Security & Emergency Services Hurricane Awareness
National Weather Service Hurricane Safety Tips & Resources
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