Plans For High Surf, Flooding Possible On LI From Hurricane Lee

HEMPSTEAD, NY — While Long Island will not be a direct target of Hurricane Lee, it is still anticipated to cause problems along the south shore.

"Flooding remains a serious concern for the Town of Hempstead," said Supervisor Don Clavin.

The town is making preparations ahead of an expected powerful storm surge and high winds.

With that in mind, the Town of Hempstead Storm Response Team is directing crews to secure boats and other seaside equipment and clear storm drains.

Swimming at town beaches is prohibited through Saturday, but they will remain open lifeguards, the town said.

The likelihood of waves as high as 15 feet and sustained wind gusts could increase the risk of coastal flooding and downed trees.

PSEG Long Island is monitoring the storm's track and urges residents to plan for the worst.

"As we watch the forecast, we have performed system and logistic checks, and have a full complement of personnel who can jump into storm mode if needed. In the event of any outages, our crews will work to safely restore service as quickly as conditions will allow," Larry Torres, senior director of Emergency Preparedness at PSEG Long Island, said.

Adding to the delicate situation this weekend, a New Moon started on Thursday to stir the swelling tide.

A high surf advisory is in effect through Saturday evening for Southern Nassau and Suffolk counties.