Gov. Andrew Cuomo says ocean beaches on Long Island are closed to swimmers starting Sunday due to strong riptides churned up by Tropical Storm Hermine.

Beachgoers were out in Long Beach Saturday to salvage what they could of the Labor Day weekend ahead of Hermine's arrival. Lifeguards were on alert because dangerous rip currents had already formed as the storm churned nearer, and they were warning swimmers to think twice before hitting the surf.

Long Beach city officials and agencies were working together to protect the barrier island from potential coastal flooding and high winds from Hermine.

"Public works crews are out and about the city doing preparations, clearing storm drains and all the things you do before a potential storm. We have upgraded our infrastructure so that's helpful," said Long Beach City Manager Jack Schnirman.

The American Red Cross on Long Island was urging residents to download the free

Red Cross emergency app to stay on top of weather conditions. The app also offers information about shelters and resources, updated on a consistent basis.

Tropical Storm Hermine is expected to stall off Long Island's southern coast for the next several days over the Atlantic Ocean, bringing strong winds and flooding to the Island's coastal areas.

Stay with News 12 for the latest on the storm.