Lawrence Mayor Discusses Hurricane Sandy

Village of Lawrence Mayor Martin Oliner posted the following information on the village's website:

I would like to share several points with you in connection with this serious and dangerous storm which is about to effect our Village.

• First, the County has announced a mandatory evacuation for lowland areas which includes the entire Village of Lawrence
• Second, storm expectations — The storm is expected to effect us with rain which will intensify and be accompanied by increasing winds. Tropical storm conditions will begin this evening and are expected to intensify by Monday night between 6 – 12 pm. The storm is not expected to be over until Tuesday mid-day.
• Third, the closer you are to the ocean the greater the concern, because coastal flooding up to 10 feet is being predicted. Flooding conditions will prevent emergency vehicles from gaining access to flooded areas.  
• Within a 200 mile area winds up to 75 mph are expected. Within a 200 mi area power outages are expected. Rain in our area is predicted to be from 2 to 4 inches. Rain in Westchester and NJ is currently predicted to be at 4 to 6 inches.
• Reporting — You should report any outages to LIPA at 1-800-490-0075. Additionally please email your outage to the Village at emergency@villageoflawrence.org
• All non-life threatening emergencies should be directed to the County’s Non-emergency Hotline at 1-888-684-4274. Residents should only contact 911 if there is a true life-threatening emergency.
• Any medical preparation that you can do today that you otherwise would be doing later this week should be done immediately. If you are concerned about a medical condition or if you may be in need of medical assistance or are using medical equipment, please consult your physician about the effects of the storm regarding electrical power outages which could last as much as a week.
• Use common sense. If you are in a 200 mile area do not go outside until the storm is over. Risks from falling trees and flying debris is very great and could be very distressful and could cause severe problems.
• Needless to say, any loose items and projectiles should be stored.
• The Village will be open to the extent possible.
• An evacuation center has been established with kosher food at the West Hempstead High School, which is located at 400 Nassau Blvd. in West Hempstead.

If you have any issues or questions please do not hesitate to call me on my cell at 516-238-3109 or call Dave Smollett the Village Administrator at Village Hall at 516-239-4600 ext. 1010. Thank you and stay safe