Freeport prepared for tropical storm

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All of Long Island, including the Village of Freeport,are prepared to brace Tropical Storm Isaias as it churns up the East Coast today, according to the National Weather Service.

The storm is predicted to bring heavy rain and winds, with gusts up to 70 mph.

It could also bring flooding in low-lying areas near the coast and power outages.

NWS forecasters are predicting Isaias will lash the Northeast from Tuesday into Wednesday, with the storm dissipating Thursday.

Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy said the village has properly prepped for the storm by bringing in additional staff to the Freeport Electric Department as well as readying the large army trucks the village has that can access any area in case of flooding. 

“We’re ready for the storm and we’ve set out a call to all residents yesterday so they know what to expect,” Kennedy said. 

Since the worst of the storm is set to come during low tide, Kennedy said the bulkheads should protect the village from any major flooding, but police and emergency personnel will be on the lookout throughout the village. 

Residents are encouraged to put away loose, outdoor furniture and stay away from downed power lines and wires. If someone sees a downed wire, they should contact the Freeport Police Department at (516)-377-2411 or 911. The police will then notify the proper department to fix it.  

Kennedy added that parking regulations will be suspended at municipal parking lots. He encouraged residents worried about their vehicles in low-lying areas to park there. 

The storm is expected to reach Long Island between 2 and 7 p.m.

Long Islanders are urged to prepare in advance with food, flashlights and emergency supplies, officials said. On Monday, local governments like the City of Long Beach were out reinforcing beach dunes to protect against storm surge, which caused much of the damage during Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

More to follow.