New York agencies are preparing for a coastal storm that could bring flooding, dangerous surf and gusty winds to Long Island and the lower Hudson region through the weekend. The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood watch for southern Nassau County for Friday evening through Saturday morning, when it expects the greatest tidal-flooding risk.
Gov. Kathy Hochul directed state agencies to stand ready and urged residents of shoreline and low-lying communities to monitor changing forecasts. A National Weather Service discussion issued early Thursday said the storm's exact track remained uncertain, but coastal flooding and beach erosion were expected to be the main hazards. It described rainfall flooding as a lower risk than the state's earlier release had suggested, though a marginal excessive-rainfall risk remained for central and eastern Long Island and southeast Connecticut.
The Weather Service also listed a coastal flood advisory for southern Nassau and southwest Suffolk from Thursday evening to Friday morning. High rip-current risk at area ocean beaches was in effect through Friday afternoon and could persist into the weekend. Breaking surf could reach about 6 to 7 feet, according to the updated forecast.
Where the storm poses the greatest risk
The storm is expected to approach the region Friday and influence conditions through Sunday. Rain is likely mainly east of New York City from Friday afternoon into Saturday afternoon, while the potential for wind and rainfall effects depends on how close the storm tracks to shore. The Weather Service expected mostly minor wind impacts near the coast and said additional flood watches or warnings could be needed.
Persistent northeast winds can push water into coastal bays and harbors ahead of the storm. The Weather Service identified Friday evening and Saturday morning high tides as the periods of greatest concern, with minor and locally moderate coastal flooding possible. Its watch for southern Nassau reflects a greater potential for widespread moderate flooding there.
The hazards are concentrated on Long Island and the New York City coast, with possible effects in the lower Mid-Hudson. The state's response is broader because transportation, utility and emergency agencies may need to shift staff and equipment if conditions change. Hochul said officials did not expect widespread damage at the time of the state announcement but warned that surf and flooding still posed a safety threat.
State crews, utilities and transit systems prepare
The state Office of Emergency Management is in contact with local officials and has supplies ready if communities request help. The State Watch Center is monitoring forecasts around the clock. The Department of Transportation reported 3,389 supervisors and operators available statewide, along with 91 excavators, 28 traffic and tree-crew bucket trucks and 20 sewer-jet vacuum trucks.
The Thruway Authority has equipment for drainage, road closures, detours and emergency power positioned for potential impacts. Utilities reported about 5,500 workers available statewide for damage assessment and restoration. State Police, environmental-conservation officers, forest rangers and other responders are monitoring the storm and can move resources toward affected areas.
Environmental officials urged municipalities to inspect flood-prone places and clear accumulated debris. DEC said routine debris removal generally does not require its authorization unless work disturbs stream beds or banks or involves heavy equipment there. The agency can issue emergency authorizations when immediate protection of life, property or natural resources requires work that otherwise needs a permit.
At oceanfront parks, crews have reinforced a sand berm at Jones Beach, placed sandbags near vulnerable buildings and cleared nonessential equipment from beaches. State Parks said swimming is closed for the season and advised visitors to check park-specific hours and closures before traveling.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority plans to inspect drains in flood-prone locations and monitor for water-related service problems. High winds could prompt restrictions on empty tractor-trailers or tandem trucks at MTA bridges and tunnels, or closures of pedestrian walkways. Port Authority airport and transit travelers were advised to check with carriers and operators for changes before leaving.
What residents should do
State officials urged people to stay out of the ocean during high surf and rip-current conditions and away from jetties where waves can sweep people into the water. Drivers should turn around at flooded roads rather than attempt to cross them. Residents can secure loose outdoor items, charge phones, prepare flashlights and keep clear of downed power lines.
New Yorkers can receive state emergency alerts by texting their county or borough name to 333111. Drivers can check road conditions through 511, and transit riders should check operator alerts. Because the storm track and local warnings may change, residents should rely on the latest National Weather Service forecast and local emergency notices before making travel or shoreline plans.
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