Nassau County Prepares For Isaias As Tornado Watch Issued

NASSAU COUNTY, NY — Nassau County is urging residents to take precautions as Tropical Storm Isaias makes its way into our area, bringing high winds with it. A tornado watch has also been issued for the area.

Nassau County Executive Laura Curran said the county is ready to respond to any emergency situations that arise due to the storm. Isaias is bringing sustained winds of about 40 mph and gusts of up to 70 mph. The storm started moving west overnight, so Long Island won't get as much rain as initially predicted. The strongest winds are expected between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

"The storm is not here yet, so please don't let your guard down," Curran said. "While it's less rain than we expected, it's still high winds. If you don't need to be out and about, please stay inside."

Isaias could still bring localized flooding to low-lying areas and South Shore communities. Curran urged people who live along the South Shore to bring outdoor objects inside their home. People in those areas may also want to move cars to higher ground.

If needed, the county has emergency shelters ready to be opened, though Curran said it probably won't come to that. In case shelters are opened, they are stocked with personal protective equipment and have social distancing guidelines in place.

The storm has also elevated Nassau County to an "enhanced" risk of tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service. That is a three on a scale of five, which equates to a 10 percent chance of tornadoes.

As the wind picks up, power outages become a serious concern. If you lose power or see downed wires in your area, you can report them to PSEG Long Island by calling 800-490-0075.