East Hampton Town, Village Declare State of Emergency

A powerful winter storm beginning to affect Long Island on Monday has prompted East Hampton Town and Village officials to take action. 

Village Mayor Paul F. Rickenbach Jr. and Town Supervisor Larry Cantwell declared a state of emergency effective at 4 p.m. on Monday. Meanwhile, the town and village will open a joint emergency operations center at 4 p.m. to field storm-related calls. Village residents should call 631-907-9796, and town residents should call 631-907-9743. Emergencies, however, should be reported by phone at 911.

The imminent severe snowstorm, according to a statement issued by Mayor Rickenbach, will create conditions, such as possible whiteouts, coastal erosion, and flooding, that "threaten or imperil the public safety of the citizens of this municipality."

Residents have been urged to stay off the roads through Tuesday. Vehicles cannot be parking on public roads during the state of emergency and may be towed and ticketed as necessary. Officials will continue to monitor conditions, and warming centers will be opened if needed.

Town and village highway departments will have plows on standby to help fire or emergency medical services get to calls. 

Mayor Rickenbach has directed all departments to "take whatever steps necessary to protect life and property, public infrastructure, and other such emergency assistance deemed necessary." 

Continue to check back with The Star throughout the storm for more information.

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