Schools closed, but snow storm less brutal than blizzard

Schools in the Sewanhaka Central High School, Elmont Union Free School, and Franklin Square Union Free School districts were closed today due to Tuesday night’s snow storm, which covered many Long Island areas with nearly a foot of snow. The National Weather Service predicted between six to 18 inches of snow for the region.

By Wednesday morning, much of the snow had melted, and local streets were cleared.

Pat Nicolosi, president of the Elmont East End Civic Association, said the storm paled in comparison to the Dec. 26 blizzard. He said streets were plowed in a much more timely manner than during the December blizzard, which blanketed several areas of New York with more than 18 inches of snow.

Throughout Elmont and Franklin Square, several streets were not thoroughly plowed during the blizzard, and trash pick-up was delayed for days, said Nicolosi.

“Last time was a total disaster. We were very lucky, but it was a disaster, and people could have really been hurt,” he said. “I think they were on top of it this time. I haven't received any calls. I think they heard the complaints, and they were more on top of it.”

Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray said the Town of Hempstead sent out 250 pieces of equipment and began salting roads around 6 a.m. Tuesday, in preparation for the storm.

Town workers worked throughout the night Tuesday, and will continue to plow streets today, Murray said.

School officials said they expect the Franklin Square, Sewanhaka and Elmont school districts to be open tomorrow.