STORM WATCH

A winter storm watch has been issued for Long Island ahead of this weekend's storm

Long Island coastal areas take precautions as Hurricane Lee heads north

Jones Beach Park Director Jeff Mason says the primary concern is storm surge.

Cecilia Dowd

Sep 13, 2023, 9:21 PM

Updated 512 days ago

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Though Hurricane Lee isn't expected to directly hit Long Island, rough surf and large waves will impact coastal areas.
Preparations were underway at Jones Beach Wednesday, with the creation of a large berm to prevent potential flooding. Sandbags were also placed at buildings. A parks official said items were being taken off the beach for safety.
Freeport resident Tucker Williams, who works at a restaurant on the Nautical Mile, said that at home and at the restaurant, they're used to lifting things up to keep them safe in case of flooding.
Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy said the village is divided into three zones based on how vulnerable the areas are to flooding. If a zone is at risk, a robocall goes out to residents.
East Hampton Town Supervisor Peter Van Scoyoc told News 12 that the town is warning the public to be careful and to avoid going into the water due to the "high risk of rip currents."