Hurricane Lee not expected to directly hit New York, Connecticut or New Jersey, but storm may impact Long Island's coast
LONG BEACH, N.Y. - Even though New York, New Jersey and Connecticut are not expecting a direct hit from Hurricane Lee, Long Island shore towns are preparing for potential impacts from the storm.
From Lido Beach to Long Beach, people spent the day Thursday soaking up the sun, including surfer Mike Chlala, from Hawaii.
"Overhead waves is a sign that something is in the ocean, but far enough away to have perfect waves and great weather," he said.
Something is brewing -- Hurricane Lee -- and while we aren't expecting a direct hit, high surf and dangerous rip currents will even keep Chlala out of the water after Thursday.
"My rule of thumb is if you can't swim in it, you shouldn't surf in it," he said.
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The rule at Long Beach and at other Hempstead town beaches through the weekend is no swimming; lifeguards will be on patrol. Safety is a big concern for the town supervisor, along with flooding and beach erosion.
"We've had crews for the last week, and they will be out all weekend long securing these waterways, building up these areas to try and preserve our beaches," Town Supervisor Don Clavin said.
To prep in Southampton, officials are using drones to capture images before the storm so they can analyze damage to the beaches and erosion, which is not a bad idea to do at home.
"Being able to document what the property looked like pre-storm versus post-storm is really helpful if you have to put in any type of an insurance claim," said Southampton Town Emergency Manager Ryan Murphy.
Captain James Foley, owner of Hampton Lady Fishing, says even on this beautiful day, fishermen are feeling the impact.
"There's a big storm swell and going in and out of the inlet is about 10-15 foot swells, so all the boats are out of commission for a while," he said.
The owner of Bracco's on the Nautical Mile in Freeport says he's watching the forecast closely and will respond accordingly.
"If we gotta be here late Friday night to get stuff up 'cause of storm surge, then we'll do it, but it looks like it's taking a turn ... for the better, thank God," Michael Bracco said.
That's the hope, but at least all will be prepared.
Gov. Kathy Hochul also deployed 50 National Guard members to Long Island to help.
High surf, dangerous rip currents and beach erosion are the biggest threats to the Tri-State Area. Plus, a new moon starting Thursday will further stir the swelling tide.
A track shift can always happen, which is why it's important to be ready.
Hurricane season isn't over, so it's a good time to prepare at home. Always have a go-bag ready, that includes water, food, medication, a cellphone with charger, backup batteries, flashlight, first aid kit and whistle.