Despite incessantly high wind and higher-than-expected snowfall, Patchogue’s snow removal efforts went well Thursday, said Joseph Dean, the village’s public works superintendent.
“The snow stopped early enough that our guys were able to go home, get some sleep, and get back early today,” said Dean.
According to the National Weather Service, the Greater Patchogue area saw some of the most snow on Long Island, with a Medford measurement reaching 16.3 inches — second only to the 16.4 that was measured in Terryville.
The initial snow removal focus in Patchogue was on clearing the major roads, Dean explained, with work then shifting to clearing off the side streets.
“Recovery is still ongoing,” he said earlier on Friday.
But Long Islanders need to be careful going into the weekend, on and off the roadways.
The NWS is reporting that temperatures will fall into the single digits Friday (6 degrees) and Saturday (3 degrees), causing officials to be concerned about the roads.
“The worse thing you can have following a storm like this is extremely cold temperatures,” Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said at a press conference Friday morning.
When temperatures drop, Bellone explained, salt and sand become less effective in clearing snow, leading to icy roads.
“Major roads look good today,” said Bellone, “but it is still imperative that residents remain cautious due to the icy conditions, and that they avoid unnecessary travel.”
Saturday’s high will be 12 degrees, with wind chills making it feel more like -5 to -10 degrees. Wind gusts could reach as high as 32 mph.
With the frigid temperatures, Bellone is urging residents to check on their neighbors.
“The reality is temperatures like this are extremely dangerous and life threatening,” he said.
He also gave the number for Temporary Housing Assistance for those without heat and shelter: 631-854-9547.
MORE:
Blizzard Coverage: 20 storm photos from the Greater Patchogue area
Top: Steve Bellone addresses the media at the Suffolk County Department of Public Works’ salt barn in Commack on Friday. (Credit: Nicholas Esposito)
