Baldwin schools will be closed Monday as a powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, strong winds and dangerously cold temperatures to the area, according to the National Weather Service. All school activities and events scheduled for Monday have also been canceled.
Forecasters say Baldwin and surrounding communities could see between 8 and 14 inches of snow, with the storm beginning around 3 a.m. Sunday. A winter storm warning remains in effect through 1 p.m. Monday.
Heavy snow is forecast throughout Sunday, with blowing snow and near-whiteout conditions possible at times. Snow may mix with sleet late Sunday afternoon before transitioning to light freezing rain overnight, with ice accumulations of up to one-tenth of an inch possible. Wind gusts could reach up to 40 mph.
Both Nassau and Suffolk counties are under a state of emergency, and officials are urging Baldwin residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
“Stay home on Sunday if you can,” Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said in a news release. “We’re talking about significant snow. We’re talking about whiteouts. We’re talking about freezing weather and wind. If you don’t absolutely have to go out on Sunday, please stay home.”
The National Weather Service warned that road conditions in and around Baldwin will be hazardous, particularly on bridges and overpasses, with visibility potentially dropping below a quarter mile due to falling and blowing snow. Motorists who must travel are advised to carry emergency supplies, including a flashlight, food and water, and to monitor local transportation updates.
A coastal flood statement is also in effect late Sunday night for southern Nassau County, including Baldwin. Brief minor flooding of less than one foot above ground level is possible in vulnerable waterfront and shoreline areas. Officials cautioned drivers not to travel through flooded roadways.
PSEG Long Island urged Baldwin residents to stay clear of downed power lines, which should always be considered live, and to avoid standing water or slush. The utility also warned against using generators or gasoline-powered equipment indoors or near windows or vents.
Power outages can be reported through the PSEG Long Island mobile app, by texting OUT to 773454, online at psegliny.com/outages, or by calling 800-490-0075. Updates are also available through social media and the MyPower outage map.
