State of Emergency declared in Suffolk County as snowstorm closes in

Suffolk County, Brookhaven Town, Patchogue and Bellport Village officials all issued a State of Emergency Sunday in preparation for the impending snowstorm.

A winter storm warning remains in effect throughout western Suffolk County from Monday to 6 a.m. Tuesday, with heavy snow expected, according to the National Weather Service. Suffolk County could see snow accumulations from 12 to 20 inches, with wind gusts as high as 50 miles per hour. 

Blizzard-like conditions are possible late Monday morning and Monday afternoon. Some mixing of sleet and rain could limit snowfall amounts – especially along the south shore, according to  the National Weather Service. 

Brookhaven Town supervisor Ed Romaine issued a State of Emergency Sunday shortly after Suffolk County officials made the same call Sunday. The town designation will remain in effect until 10 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 2. 

Patchogue Village mayor Paul Pontieri and Bellport Village mayor Raymond Fell followed suit Sunday and issued a State of Emergency which will remain in effect during the same timeline.

Bayport-Blue Point, Patchogue-Medford, South Country and William Floyd school districts all announced that schools will be closed Monday due to inclement weather.

Residents are urged to stay off the roads unless there is an emergency or if it is absolutely essential to travel. 

Vehicles parked in the street should be moved to driveways or municipal parking lots, or they could be subject to towing at the owner’s expense, a Patchogue Village press release said. Any abandoned vehicles obstructing access for snow plows and emergency vehicles may also be removed by the municipalities. 

Brookhaven urged residents to clear the area near fire hydrants, remove ice and snow from steps, sidewalks and walkways, keep electronic devices charged, have a battery-operated radio and a flashlight prepared, dress warm if shoveling snow, drive safely, keep pets indoors, and check on elderly and infirmed friends and neighbors.

Residents should call 451-TOWN to report snow related issues. For further information, visit the Town’s website at www.brookhavenny.gov.