Long Island Officials Discuss Storm Preparedness and Inter-County Cooperation

Joint Press Conference on Hurricane Preparedness

• 🤝 Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine held a joint press conference to discuss emergency preparedness measures for future storms.
• ⚠️ While Hurricane Erin's remnants are causing coastal flooding and erosion, Blakeman stated he is not anticipating an evacuation order in Nassau County at this time.
• 🏠 Residents in low-lying or shore areas are advised to have water, a plan to leave, non-perishable food, manual can openers, flashlights, and batteries, and to avoid using candles due to fire hazards.

Storm Response and Public Safety

• 🌊 Suffolk County Executive Romaine noted that while the hurricane turned east, a westward turn could have posed a serious danger, emphasizing the force of high waves.
• 🏖️ County beaches in Suffolk are closed, with the exception of Meschutt Beach, due to threats from erosion and flooding.
• 🌳 Romaine urged utility companies to invest in burying power lines over the next 10-20 years to mitigate issues from fallen trees and branches.
• 🚨 Residents are encouraged to sign up for alerts via text (SUFFK smart: 67283) and download the Smart 911 app for emergency responders.

Inter-County Cooperation and Resource Sharing

• 🤝 Blakeman and Romaine highlighted their strong working relationship, emphasizing mutual aid agreements between Nassau and Suffolk counties for police and fire departments.
• 🚗 They share assets and information, viewing Long Island's storm response as a regional issue.
• 🆘 If one county needs assistance, such as high-axle vehicles or additional personnel, the other county will provide support.

Emergency Declarations and Future Concerns

• ⚠️ Romaine is considering declaring an emergency for Fire Island due to concerns about potential ocean breaches and washovers, especially around high tide.
• ⏳ Decisions on emergency declarations will be made based on real-time monitoring of conditions, with high tide expected around 7:30-8:00 PM in Suffolk and 6:00 PM in Nassau.
• 💡 Both executives stressed the unpredictable nature of hurricanes and the importance of continuous monitoring and reevaluation of the situation.