First snowstorm of the year hits Elmont

Elmont and Franklin Square residents woke up to about seven inches of snow on Friday, and flakes were falling from the sky until approximately 8:30 a.m. From the pathways to their homes to the piles on their vehicles, residents began digging their way out.

As of noon, District 3 County Legislator Carrie Solages said, there was still significant work to be done on Elmont roads. He said he is channeling the calls regarding town roads to his office. County roads, he said, are in good shape, and there are no downed power lines.

"People who live in the west end of Elmont and Valley Stream have reason to complain," he said. "Removal has not, as of yet, been what it used to be. ... The town does a great job and they are responsive; I give them credit. But I do get the calls."

State Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages said that she was very concerned about the impact the the snowstorm would have on PSEG Long Island's electrical system. She said that the storm had a minor impact on the electrical system, and that PSEG was very well-prepared.

"After witnessing the frustration and poor response time during Sandy," she said, "I was definitely concerned. Upon news of the storm, I directly communicated with PSEG. PSEG had put into place its emergency plan to deal with the blizzard and immediately repair customer outages. [They] had their personnel prepared, all vehicles were fueled and ready and had emergency repair supplies on hand."

Elmont resident Consuelo Butron said that there was a lot of work to be done, adding that he was fortunate to be able to work from home.

"The storm brings inconvenience to our lives," he said, "[but] since technology has come a long way, I can still work from home. I do enjoy [the snow], especially the first day. After that, when it turns black and slushy, it's not a good sight."

Elmont School District and Sewanhaka School District are on holiday recess until Monday.

To report a power outage, call PSEG at (800) 490-0075 or report an outage online, on your smartphone or via text.Text OUT to 773454 or visit www.psegliny.com.

Temperatures on Frida are expected to be in the mid teens, with lows in the single digits.