It is snowing in the Five Towns

A winter storm warning will be in effect for all of Long Island from now through Thursday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. An area of low pressure over the Atlantic Ocean will sweep into the region as a nor'easter this afternoon, bringing with it heavy snow after 5 p.m. and heavy winds. Blizzard-like conditions are possible, according the service.

The heaviest snowfall expected between 9 p.m. that Wednesday with the tapering off by early Thursday afternoon. Accumulations of 8 to 14 inches and wind gust as high as 50 mph are forecast.

Nassau County is predicted to receive a foot or more of snow, with less on the South Shore and more on the North Shore. Dangerous conditions on the water are predicted, and flooding is possible in low-lying areas. 

"We have lots of salt, we have a lot of sand," County Executive Laura Curran said at a morning news conference, adding that brine trucks have been out and the upside is the majority of the storm will hit when many peole are already off the roads and at home.  

"We encourage all residents to take this storm seriously," Town of Hempsead Supervisor Don Clavin stated in a news release. "Stock up on basic essentials, make sure your elderly family members and friends have a warm place to stay, and, most importantly, please stay off the roads to allow our snow removal crews to clean the town's 1,200 miles of roadways and more than 120 parking fields as quickly, safely and efficiently as possible."

Cedarhurst and Lawrence village officials said that they are prepared with the snowplows, sanders and snow blowers ready to go. There is plenty of salt as well. “We are confident that we are ready to tackle the upcoming winter storm,” Cedarhurst officials said.

They recommend that residents put their vehicles in driveways where possible, so plows can clear the street from curb to curb. If not off the street, then try to park all vehicles on only on one side of the street, to plow the middle and one side of the road. Once that is done, move the vehicles to the clear side and plowing can be done to the other curb.  

It is expected that the Hewlett-Woodmere and Lawrence school districts will be closed for instruction on Dec. 17. Lawrence will be remote on Dec. 18.

Clear streets are vital to having safe and efficient passage for police cars, ambulances and fire trucks. Emergency calls should be made to 911. Calling the 4th Precinct directly actually slows down the response because they route your call to 911.

Atlantic Beach Mayor George Pappas also noted that, "When removing snow from your driveways and sidewalks, please don’t place snow in the streets, as it usually becomes a layer of ice, especially from snowblowers."
 
 Residents who lose power can report it to PSEG-LI at 800-490-0075.
 
Health warning: Take care while shoveling snow. Because of the cold, you might not notice strains, pains or even frostbite.  Work slowly and rest every few minutes.