'High potential' for power outages: LIPA

The Long Island Power Authority said it is keeping a close eye on the track of the hurricane, as there is "still a high potential for extensive damage and power outages."

Although no significant power outages were reported on Long island as of Saturday afternoon, they were expected to accompany Irene as she hits New York on Sunday around 2 a.m.

"LIPA is fully prepared to begin restoration efforts as soon as it is safe to do so," the company said on its website. "We have established staging areas across Long Island staffed with our own crews and additional workers brought in from on and off Long Island."

The company encouraged area residents to visit its Hurricane Safety Page for safety and preparation tips, and to call 1-800-490-0075 to report power outages. It asked residents to call the same number if they see any downed power lines, and warned them not to touch or go near them — "assume it is a live electric wire," LIPA said, and report it either to the company or to the police.

Since Irene hit North Carolina around 7:30 a.m., more than 550,000 people in North Carolina and Virginia have lost power.