As the Northeast still recovers from Sandy, another storm is poised to strike the region.
The National Weather Service has issued a warning about a nor’easter, which is expected to impact the tri-state area Wednesday and Thursday.
Until early Thursday morning Queens is under a winter weather advisory, which may bring up to a few inches of snow, and a high wind warning with 25 to 35 mph winds and gusts up to 60 mph.
The storm could also cause coastal flooding and additional beach erosion along a coast that has already been ravaged by Sandy.
In anticipation of the nor’easter, Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced yesterday that all city parks, playground and beaches will be closed from noon Wednesday until noon Thursday because of approaching nor’easter.
“No general evacuations have been ordered, but if you experienced significant flooding during Hurricane Sandy, you should consider taking shelter with family and friends, who do not live in low-lying areas, or go to one of the City-run storm shelters. There are still thousands in the region that are without power and heat,” said a storm advisory posted on NYC.gov.
As of Wednesday afternoon, there were almost 12,800 customers with outages in Queens, more than any other borough, and the power might not be restored until this weekend.
On Monday, Harry J. Farrell, president of Local 1-2 of the Utility Workers Union of America, NY, warned “the public to brace for another round of outages,” adding that ”parts of the energy grid were damaged beyond repair and much of the power that has been restored is jerry-rigged.”
To prepare for the upcoming storm, the NYPD has the following tips:
- We ask that you ensure loose items or debris around your home are secured, and any tree limbs that were affected by Sandy be removed or secured.
- Stock up on essential food and water supplies if possible, and fuel your vehicles when you can (we know the lines are long!)
- Make a plan – ensure family members know how to contact each other and where to meet should communication be difficult.
- Check your flashlights and make sure they have a supply of batteries.
- If you use candles, use them with care – keep them away from any flammable objects (curtains etc) and never use them unattended – particularly when sleeping.
- Do not use your stove or oven to provide heat – Carbon Monoxide is deadly and open flames are even more dangerous.
