Tropical Storm Warning in Effect for West Islip

The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for West Islip and all of Southwest Suffolk County for Friday evening, with wind gusts expected to reach up to 45 mph.

As of 2 p.m., the center of the hurricane was approximately 240 southeast of New York City.  The hurricane is said to have the greatest impact in eastern Long Island, but residents shouldn't focus too much on the center, as the impact from tropical cyclones can be felt from over 100 miles away. The National Weather Service said the next update will come at 7 p.m.

Long Island MacArthur Airport will remain open today, however, Southwest Airlines has canceled all flights after 5 p.m.  US Airways has indicated a plan to continue operations as long as weather conditions permit.  The airport is advising travelers to check with their carrier.

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The Long Island Railroad has also suspended service east of Speonk on the Montauk Branch and east of Ronkonkoma on the Main Line, which normally takes customers to Greenport and Long Island's North Fork. LIRR service west of Ronkonkoma and west of Speonk will operate on a normal schedule.

As the storm approaches, LIPA suggests residents take the following steps to prepare for the arrival of either a hurricane or tropical storm.

• Never touch or go near fallen wires, even if you think they are safe.
• Make sure you have a working, battery powered radio or TV and a good supply of fresh replacement batteries. Have flashlights available for all family members.
• If an electric pump supplies your water, fill spare food-grade containers with water for cooking and washing in anticipation of a possible power interruption.
• Make sure all motor driven equipment, such as garage door openers, can be operated manually.
• When using a portable generator, make sure all LIPA-powered equipment is disconnected. This will avoid severe hazards when reconnecting the power to your home or business.
• Have a first aid kit at home and check its contents to make sure they are complete and up to date. If you have family members with special medical needs, such as insulin or other prescription drugs, check to make sure you have an adequate supply.
• Do not use charcoal to cook indoors: deadly carbon monoxide gas can accumulate in your home.
• If you have an elderly neighbor, check on his or her status. Even a quick telephone call during a storm can provide much appreciated assurance that help is nearby if needed.
• Should an electric power interruption occur, all sensitive equipment, such as computers and TV's should be disconnected until service is restored.

To report or check on a power outage, call the Long Island Power Authority's storm center at either 1 (800) 490-0075 or (631) 755-6900. Calls regarding a downed power line should be reported to 911.