Town of Islip Declares State of Emergency

The Town of Islip has declared as state of emergency with on track to pummel Long Island this weekend. 

“We really need to impart upon our residents that this storm is a serious threat,” Town Supervisor Phil Nolan said.

The Town has opened its Emergency Operations Center and the Department of Public Works has been put on call to make certain that there are enough workers to handle the flooding and the clearing of debris, Nolan said.

“We are going to be at the fore of any response to damages in our community,” he said. “Islip residents should know that the Town is doing all that it can in the face of this very powerful storm. But ultimately we are counting on our residents to be vigilant and prepared for the worst-case scenario.”  

Town officials met Thursday afternoon in the Emergency Operations Center at Town Hall West to gear up for what could be the worst storm to hit Suffolk County in years.

The Town has already issued a voluntary evacuation of Fire Island, with a county order to evacuate to come Friday. Marinas and beaches will also be closed on Saturday.    

Officials have also begun to evacuate the Town's four trailer parks. The Town will set up shelters at Brentwood High School and Seneca Middle School in Holbrook for these families, as well as others who are at risk.  

"This is the worst weather we've encountered in a long time," Nolan told a group of officials Thursday. "There are elements of a worst case scenario."   

Officials warn that if Hurricane Irene remains on her current path, the eye of the storm could hit Long Island by Sunday morning. Meteorologists predict that Irene could dump as much as a foot of water on the island. Winds may also reach 60 to 80 mph. 

And because Irene will likely hit during high tide, there is an increased risk of flooding and storm surges.

"We must have all hands on deck," Nolan said at the meeting. 

County officials say that they will track the storm closely over the next twelve hours. They are currently considering issuing an evacuation order for residents in low-lying areas within the Town of Islip, including parts of Bayport and West Islip.  

Officials said they will make a final decision tomorrow and then notify residents in the affected areas by phone.  

Richard Gimbl, the Town of Islip Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, advised residents to listen to local radio stations and check the Town of Islip website frequently over the next two days. 

Gimbl, who described the hurricane as a "hyper-Gloria," also suggested that residents bring lawn furniture inside and stock up on water and dry food.   

"People should take this seriously," he said. 

He encouraged residents with questions to call the Town's 24-hour emergency help line at 224-5600.

Ryan Bonner contributed to this story.