Staten Island Hard Hit by Winter Storm: Snowfall, Power Outages, and Road Hazards

Storm Impact on Staten Island

• ❄️ Staten Island is experiencing significant snowfall, with drifts reaching knee-high in some areas.
• ⚠️ The storm has caused considerable disruption, including downed power lines and leaning utility poles, creating hazardous road conditions.
• 🚗 Emergency vehicles and regular traffic are navigating around these obstacles, with some streets becoming impassable.

Business and Community Response

• restauranteur Michael Rean is seen clearing snow from his establishment, O'Neal's Restaurant and Bar, to prepare for opening the next day.
• 🚧 He notes that the snowfall estimates were accurate, with 16 to 18 inches accumulating, and is focused on clearing sidewalks and parking lots.

City and Utility Response

• 🏙️ Mayor Adams stated that parts of Staten Island are being hit hardest by the winter storm.
• 🚚 DSNY is deploying additional equipment to Staten Island, and the NYPD tow truck task force is assisting with stuck vehicles, including MTA buses.
• ⚡ Approximately 1300 power outages were reported on Staten Island, with a broader figure of 8,500 in New York City, many in the Rockaways.

Safety and Travel Advisories

• 👢 Reporter Darla Miles highlights the necessity of proper gear, like Wellington boots, to navigate the deep snow.
• ⚠️ Residents are urged to be cautious of downed trees and power lines, and to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary due to difficult driving conditions and potential for vehicles to slide.
• 🚫 With most businesses closed for the day, there is no need for people to be out on the roads.