Oceanside schools will be closed Monday as a powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, strong winds and dangerously cold temperatures to Long Island, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters say 8 to 14 inches of snow could fall across the region, with the storm expected to begin around 3 a.m. Sunday.
A winter storm warning remains in effect until 1 p.m. Monday. Heavy snow is forecast throughout the day Sunday, with blowing snow and near-whiteout conditions possible at times. Snow may mix with sleet late Sunday afternoon before changing to light freezing rain overnight, with ice accumulations of up to one-tenth of an inch possible. Wind gusts could reach as high as 40 mph.
Both Nassau and Suffolk counties are under a state of emergency as officials urge 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 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 keep an emergency kit in their vehicles, including a flashlight, food and water, and to check local transportation updates for the latest road conditions.
A coastal flood statement is also in effect late Sunday night for southern Nassau County, including Oceanside. Brief minor flooding of less than one foot above ground level is possible in the most vulnerable waterfront and shoreline areas. Officials caution drivers not to travel through flooded roadways.
PSEG Long Island urged residents to stay away from 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.
