Suffolk and Nassau Counties Declare State of Emergency Ahead of Powerful Storm System

Suffolk and Nassau Counties Declare State of Emergency Ahead of Powerful Storm System

Long Island — July 5, 2026
Officials in both Suffolk and Nassau counties declared a state of emergency Sunday afternoon as a fast‑intensifying storm system barreled toward Long Island, prompting warnings of flooding, damaging winds, and widespread power outages.

County leaders said the declaration allows them to mobilize resources more quickly, activate emergency shelters, and coordinate with state agencies as forecasters track a line of severe thunderstorms expected to sweep across the region late Sunday into Monday.

Meteorologists say the system has the potential to produce wind gusts over 60 mph, torrential downpours, and isolated tornado activity — conditions that could overwhelm drainage systems already strained by last week’s heavy rain.

“We’re preparing for a high‑impact event,” Suffolk County Executive officials said in a briefing. “Residents should take this seriously. If your area floods during normal storms, expect it to flood tonight.”

Nassau County issued similar warnings, urging residents to secure outdoor furniture, charge devices, and avoid unnecessary travel once the storms begin. Emergency crews have already been placed on standby, and several towns announced they will open shelters if conditions worsen.

Utility companies across Long Island said they are preparing for potential outages, with additional crews staged near known trouble spots. Downed trees and power lines remain a major concern due to saturated soil and expected wind speeds.

Coastal communities — including Long Beach, Freeport, Bay Shore, and Patchogue — were advised to monitor tide forecasts closely. While the storm is not expected to produce a full coastal surge, officials warned that heavy rain combined with strong winds could create hazardous conditions along marinas and low‑lying waterfronts.

Local fire departments and EMS agencies spent Sunday checking equipment, staffing additional units, and reviewing response plans. Several school districts announced they will make decisions about Monday schedules early in the morning once the storm’s impact becomes clearer.

Officials urged residents to stay informed through county alerts and avoid driving through flooded roadways, which remain one of the leading causes of storm‑related injuries.

“This is a rapidly developing situation,” Nassau emergency management officials said. “We want people home, safe, and ready before the worst of it arrives.”

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