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Extreme heat prompts emergency declaration for Suffolk County

by Lynn Hallarman - June 24, 2025

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By Lynn Hallarman

Governor Hochul declared a state of emergency in 32 counties, including Suffolk County on June 22. Local temperatures on Tuesday, June 24, are forecast to reach a high of 95 degrees with a heat index—how the heat feels—as high as 105. Hochul urged New Yorkers to “stay vigilant and safe” as extreme heat blankets the area.

When temperature and humidity soar, the result is not just discomfort— it can be life-threatening, especially for older adults and those with chronic health conditions.

What is extreme heat?

Extreme heat causes more deaths than all other weather-related hazards, including hurricanes, major floods and winter storms, according to the National Weather Service.

The heat index measures how the body perceives extreme heat. Rising humidity combined with temperature makes it feel far hotter than a thermometer alone suggests. Heat Islands—or environments with a high concentration of cement—trap heat and intensify the danger.

Signs of Heat Stress

Heat cramps are often the first sign of heat-related illness and can be accompanied by weakness, fatigue, headache, nausea and fainting.

Heatstroke or hyperthermia is a life-threatening complication of heat stress that occurs when your body temperature rises to 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, along with symptoms such as confusion, hot, dry skin, hallucinations, headache or nausea. At this point, the body’s ability to regulate temperature breaks down, resulting in deadly spikes in core temperature.

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately. Move the person to a cool environment and apply cool cloths. Do not give fluids, according to medical advice from the National Weather Service.

Who is most at risk?

Older adults are among the most impacted by extreme heat, as their ability to adapt to sudden heat declines. Additionally, symptoms of heatstroke can be subtle and easily missed in frail older adults; in fact, some older adults may not recognize they’re overheating. In this population, symptoms can be vague, sometimes appearing only as confusion or slurred speech. Untreated heatstroke can lead to death, especially in the older adult population, even in times when there isn’t an official heat wave declaration.

Adults over the age of 65 make up the largest group of emergency room visits related to extreme heat events. People with chronic health conditions are also at greater risk of death during an extreme heat. Certain medications, like some antidepressants, can worsen the effects of high temperatures. In extreme heat, deaths may also occur from heart attacks or worsened respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma.

Dangerous misconceptions

Never rely on a fan as your main cooling source when it is very hot and humid for extended periods. Do not wait until extreme signs of heat appear, especially in older adults. Once the body’s core temperature regulation fails during heatstroke, it can be difficult or impossible to reverse.

How to prepare

Always have a plan in place for dealing with a heatwave. Most importantly, stay indoors as much as possible and drink plenty of water—do not wait until you are thirsty.

Older adults should identify a nearby cooling center or ensure at least one room in the home has an air conditioning unit. A fan is not enough. Never leave a child or pet in a hot car– even for five minutes.

To learn more about how extreme heat affects older adults, go to https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-older-adults-aged-65.html

Lynn Hallarman is a physician and the former director of palliative care at Stony Brook medicine.

Smithtown designates cooling center; pool, beaches and water parks extend hours

by Press Release - June 23, 2025

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With the National Weather Service issuing a Heat Advisory through Tuesday, June 25 at 8 p.m., Town of Smithtown officials are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and comfort of residents during the extreme weather.

On Monday, June 23, the Smithtown Senior Center will operate as a designated Cooling Center. Supervisor Ed Wehrheim, in coordination with the Department of Public Safety and key support staff, have made special arrangements to open the facility to residents in need of relief from the heat. Residents who would like to utilize the cooling center are encouraged to call (631) 360-7553 to make arrangements.

In addition, all Town beaches and water parks will remain open until 8 p.md. Although the Landing Country Club pool was originally scheduled to open to the public this weekend, Supervisor Wehrheim—with the full support of the Town Council—has made an executive decision to open the pool early and extend its hours until 8 p.m. on June 23.

“It’s going to be a hot and humid few days. We want to ensure the health and quality of life for everyone, especially our most vulnerable residents. It is with this in mind, that our Public Safety Department has made special arrangements to make sure our seniors have a cool place to come to. Additionally, families can take advantage of extra hours at the beach, pool and in our splash parks located all around town. A special thanks to our Public Safety Chief, Thomas J. Lohmann, our Senior Center Director, Doreen Perrino, Our Parks Director Joe Arico, Recreation Director Brandon Brandon Modrov and the support staff from these departments for dropping everything to ensure this dog day of Summer is cool and comfortable for all of our residents,” said Smihtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

Seniors can make arrangements ahead of time by contacting the Smithtown Department of Public Safety today at 631-360-7553. Residents are asked to check on elderly neighbors and pass along this information.

Town of Huntington prepares for heat wave with free admission to pools and spray parks

by Press Release - June 19, 2025

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TuozzoloSprayPark_KyleBarr4w — Children enjoy the Sgt. Paul Tuozzolo Memorial Spray Park in Elwood. Photo by Kyle Barr

As a community service and in-light of the expected heat wave, the Town of Huntington will be allowing Huntington residents to use the Manor Field Park and Elwood Spray Parks free of charge during the duration of heat wave (6/22 – 6/26). Proof of residency is required. Elwood and Manor Field Spray Parks will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m during this period.

“For some of our residents, staying cool during these frequent summer heat waves can be a challenge,” said Huntington Supervisor Ed Smyth. “Offering the spray parks to our residents with children is the best kind of community service – convenient, safe, fun and for now, free.”

Spray Parks will return to regular hours with a required Town Recreation Card on Thursday, June 26. (If weather permits, may be extended).

In anticipation of the forecasted heat wave, the Town of Huntington will also put the following services and schedules in place:

Cooling center: The Town of Huntington Flanagan Senior Center will be open Monday through Friday until 5 p.m.

Beaches – Town Residents ONLY: Gold Star Battalion, Crab Meadow, West Neck, Hobart, and Centerport Beaches will be open with stationed lifeguards until 8 p.m. Beach Permits required. Residents can visit www.tohbeachpermit.com to obtain a virtual beach permit.

Dix Hills Pool: The Dix Hills Pool will also be free to residents during the heat wave –

(Saturday, June 21 – Wednesday, June 25) – The following community hours will apply:

Saturday (6/21): 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday (6/22): 11:00 AM– 8:00 PM
Monday (6/23): 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday (6/24): 12:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday (6/24): 12:30 PM – 8:00 PM

For more information, call 631-351-3000.

Hurricane season is here: Time to prepare

by Press Release - June 3, 2025

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Hurricane season is officially underway—and now is the time for Long Islanders to get prepared. From now through November 30, Long Island faces the potential for hurricanes and tropical storms—let’s make sure our communities are ready.

While major storms may not strike every year, even a single hurricane can cause widespread damage across Long Island. Here are some key tips and local resources to help you and your loved ones stay safe and ready, courtesy of Long Island Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (LIVOAD), a program of the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI).

Prepare Now with These Simple Steps:

Make an Emergency Plan – Know your evacuation zone and how you’ll communicate with family. Click here for information on how to make a plan today.
Pack a Go-Bag – Include bottled water, shelf-stable food, medications, chargers, important documents, and a flashlight. Click here for information on how to build a go-bag.
Stay Alert – Sign up for real-time weather updates through NY Alert.
Check In On Others – Make sure elderly neighbors or those with disabilities are also prepared.

Take action now, and help protect your family, neighbors, and community.

To report an outage to PSEG:

Text OUT to PSEGLI at 773454 or visit: https://www.psegliny.com/myaccount/customersupport/contactus

To Report a Downed Power Line to PSEG call: 1-800-490-0075

American Red Cross: How to Get Help:

https://www.redcross.org/local/new-york/ or call: 1-877-733-2767

American Red Cross Preparedness Guide: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/

Hurricane Resources:

Download the Hurricane Preparedness Flyer

Nassau Emergency Resources

Suffolk Emergency Resources

Nassau County OEM:

Suffolk County OEM:

Dix Hills Fire Department to host Emergency Preparedness Seminar on June 5

by Press Release - June 3, 2025

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Suffolk County Legislators Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) and Rebecca Sanin (D-Huntington Station), in conjunction with Suffolk County Fire, Rescue & Emergency Services, will host a free Emergency Preparedness Seminar for Citizens on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Dix Hills Fire Department Station 1, located at 590 Deer Park Avenue in Dix Hills.

As hurricane season approaches, the seminar offers residents and families an opportunity to learn how to prepare for severe weather and other emergency situations. The one-hour session is open to all and requires no registration. Light refreshments will be provided.

Topics covered will include:

Extreme weather awareness
Personal and family preparedness
Emergency alerts and notifications
What to do during emergencies
Suffolk County’s disaster response plans

For more information, please contact Legislator Donnelly’s office at (631) 854-4433 or Legislator Sanin’s office at (631) 854-5100.

Editorial: The winter blues

by TBR Staff - March 11, 2025

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Upon waking up in the morning, the first thing most of us do is open the weather app, reservedly hopeful. It feels as if winter should be over as we enter March, but as the weather for the day appears on our screens or televisions, we are greeted with a little cloud icon. Again.

Despite lengthening daylight hours and sporadic days of sunshine, Long Island enters March under cold and cloudy conditions. The low temperatures keep many inside clutching a hot beverage. In the summer, there would still be plenty of daylight hours to still take advantage of: a comparison that we can’t help but indulge in.

There are some days where our only outdoor time involves walking from the car to the front door; this lack of exposure to the sun as well the inability to pursue hobbies such as hiking, playing sports, swimming or gardening can cause seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

SAD is characterized by oversleeping, overeating and social withdrawal in addition to decreased energy, loss of pleasure in hobbies and difficulty concentrating or making decisions, to name a few.

While many don’t experience the impacts of the season drastically enough to have a SAD diagnosis, the lack of time outdoors and under the sun undoubtedly has an effect on our behavior and outlook.

On a chemical level, researchers theorize that vitamin D, which we produce when we are exposed to sun, plays a role in the production of serotonin, otherwise known as the “happy chemical.” According to the National Institute of Mental Heath, the lower levels of vitamin D are common in people who suffer from SAD.

Furthermore, fewer daylight hours can cause the body to begin producing melatonin earlier, leading to oversleeping.

The uncomfortable weather understandably keeps us indoors, away from our hobbies, leaving us feeling unfulfilled. The days seem to pass faster without activities to break up the monotony of being indoors.

Luckily, we can take vitamin D supplements to compensate for our lack of sunlight exposure. While this can abate the chemical impacts, it is important to pay attention to how the season changes our lifestyle choices and to try to mitigate that or supplement it with something else.

Perhaps, instead of gardening outside, we decide to devote ourselves to a collection of houseplants. We can invest in some hand-warmers and warm weather clothing to continue hiking and walking without becoming uncomfortably cold. Or, we can take up a new engaging hobby like painting, knitting, or rock-climbing. Moving our body in some capacity is also important to make sure we stay in shape and boost our endorphins, which can decrease symptoms of depression, stabilize our mood, and help us manage stress.

As we enter the home-stretch of cold-weather, we should check in with our personal and physical needs.

Smithtown Library’s main branch completes lower level restoration after storm damage

by Sabrina Artusa - February 23, 2025

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The lower level of the Smithtown Library's main branch has been restored after Aug. 19 storm. Photo by Robert Lusak

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By Sabrina Artusa

After the Aug. 19 storm, the lower level of the Smithtown Library’s main branch at 1 North Country Road had to be cleaned and gutted. The stairwell has been repainted and all electriclal equipment has been removed. Now, the floor is a blank slate. Smithtown Library Director Robert Lusak views this as an opportunity to re-situate the floor to make it a better, nicer area.

–Photos by Robert Lusak

Ice-capades on the North Shore

by Bill Landon - February 8, 2025

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By Bill Landon

As temperatures fell and with a respite from the unrelenting wind, skaters of all ages, including tomorrow’s hockey stars, flocked to Miller Place Duck Pond and Millers Pond in Smithtown. In Smithtown, hockey players weren’t the only ones enjoying the perks of the cold weather; a furry friend wandered onto the ice, prompting skaters to take a short intermission.

— Photos by Bill Landon and Sabrina Artusa

Message from Town of Smithtown Supervisor: Winter storm watch in effect for weekend

by Press Release - February 7, 2025

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According to the National Weather Service, a winter storm watch will go into effect Saturday, Feb. 8 at approximately 7 p.m. through Sunday, Feb. 9 ending at 11 a.m.

A heavy mixed precipitation is possible. Total snow and sleet accumulations are expected to be between three and five inches and a light glaze of ice accumulations is possible. Travel conditions may become difficult during the storm, especially as temperatures fluctuate causing slick roads. If possible motorists should avoid driving during the storm. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution, warns Town of Smithtown Supervisor Edward Wehrhreim.

The Town Smithtown Highway Department Fleet will begin working Friday evening on prep, applying a beet juice brine to the roads and sidewalks to prevent dangerous black ice conditions. Snow removal crews will continue to work through the duration of the storm.

Park Vehicles in the Driveway: Residents are encouraged to keep vehicles off the curbside as plows clear the residential areas in an expeditious manner. Smithtown’s highway fleet began work overnight applying a beet juice brine to the roads and sidewalks to prevent icing.

Parks & Beaches Will Be Closed During the Storm: In an effort to keep residents safe and allow for Parks, Buildings & Grounds to remove snow from parking lots efficiently, gates and other access to the parks and beaches will be closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Stay Informed: Residents can stay informed about the storm and get up to the minute updates via the Town of Smithtown Mobile App, which is free to download on Google Play and the App Store.

The Town of Smithtown has compiled a list of tips, resources and information regarding the storm, the cleanup process, reporting power outages and the proper contact information for those in need of further assistance.

PUBLIC SAFETY:

The Department of Public Safety has activated the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and is coordinating efforts with Suffolk County and PSEG in the event of power outages. Public Safety is urging residents to stay off of the roads, which lessens the potential for accidents. Use extreme caution and if you must travel, please do so with a winter survival kit. In the event, you become stranded, stay with your vehicle and call authorities. All non life-threatening calls can be directed to the department of public safety by calling (631) 360-7553.

Elderly Neighbors & Special Needs individuals: Please check on your neighbors with disabilities, special needs or senior citizens. Make sure they have an emergency phone, plenty of water, food and blankets. Ask if they have someone to call in the event of an emergency. If further intervention is required please contact the Office for People with Disabilities at (631) 360-7642.

Animals & Family Pets: All domestic animals should remain indoors in below freezing temperatures, with the exception of allowing dogs to venture out briefly to go to the bathroom. Make sure to check the yard for broken fences or open gates and if possible keep an eye on your pets while outdoors to avoid escape, and injuries.

Please Note: It is against the law to leave pets outside in freezing conditions such as these! If you witness cruel conditions, please report it. Farm animals should be sheltered indoors for the duration of this storm. To report animals in distress, strays or other loose domestic or wild animals please call the Smithtown Animal Shelter (631) 360-7575.

Post Storm Safety: When plowing driveways please be cognizant not to block fire hydrants with snow mounds. Public Safety Fire Marshals ask that residents using generators be cognizant to place the exhaust facing outwards and at least 20’ away from a building. This can protect loved ones from CO poisoning and can prevent fires caused by generators incorrectly positioned.

Power Outages – PSEG Information: View PSEG Long Island’s outage map Click Here

To report and receive status updates on an outage Text OUT to PSEGLI (773454) or to report an outage online visit www.psegliny.com

To register, have your account number available and text REG to PSEGLI (773454)

Downed wires should always be considered “live.” Do not approach or drive over a downed line and do not touch anything contacting the wire. To report a downed wire, call PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour Electric Service number: 1-800-490-0075.

Road Preparations and Snow Cleanup:

Superintendent of Highways, Robert Murphy reports that the full fleet has been deployed for the duration of the storm. As a reminder, please remove any waste bins, brush or leaf bags from the curbside and park vehicles in driveways so the roads can be plowed efficiently during and after snow accumulation. This also prevents damage to curb cuts, mailboxes and driveways.

To report icing, and other issues related to conditions along the roads, please contact the highway department at (631) 360-7500.

USEFUL NUMBERS:

Stranded Vehicles: If there is an emergency, please dial 9-11 immediately. All non life-threatening calls can be directed to the Department of Public Safety by calling 631-360-7553

Local Fire & Police Phone Numbers: In an emergency dial 9-1-1

Suffolk County Police Department: For non-emergencies, contact 631-852-COPS (2677). Dial 9-1-1 ONLY for life-threatening emergencies.
Smithtown Fire Rescue Communications: 631-265-1500 for fire and EMS emergencies in the Smithtown, Kings Park, and Hauppauge Fire Districts.
Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services: Dial 911 for fire and EMS emergencies in the St. James, Nesconset, and Nissequogue Fire Districts.
Commack Fire Department: 631-499-5777 for fire emergencies in the Commack Fire District.

Report Power Outages to PSEG: Text OUT to PSEGLI (773454), report it online at MyAccount.psegliny.com, through the PSEG app, or call1-800-490-0075

Report Gas Outages or Emergencies: If you smell gas anywhere, including in your home, go outside and call National Grid 24 hour hotline at 1-800-490-0045 or dial 911 immediately.

LIRR Commuter Travel Information: For information regarding delays or travel questions, contact the LIRR 24 hour travel information center at 718-217-5477

Suffolk 311: Suffolk County 311 is a central call center available to residents who do not know which number to call for any non-emergency. Residents can reach the 311 line Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or leave messages after hours.

Elderly Neighbors & Special Needs individuals: For assistance with elderly or special needs individuals, contact the Office for People with Disabilities at (631) 360-7642

Animals & Family Pets: To report animals in distress, strays or other loose/lost domestic or wild animals please call (631) 360-7575. To Report Animal Abuse, or Neglect contact the Suffolk County SPCA at (631) 382-7722 or Suffolk County Police at (631) 854-8200.

Winter pet safety tips – can be found online at the Suffolk County SPCA by visiting suffolkspca.org/information/safety-tips/weather-tips/

Port Jefferson Ice Festival is still cool six years later

by Julianne Mosher - January 30, 2025

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By Julianne Mosher

For its sixth consecutive year, the Port Jefferson Ice Festival brought in thousands of guests to the village after stormy weather caused a rain date activation.

Originally scheduled for Jan. 18 and 19, the festival was postponed to Saturday, Jan. 25 and Sunday, Jan. 26 where weather was sunny, but chilly — a perfect combination for the more than two dozen ice sculptures to thrive.

For more than half a decade, the annual Port Jefferson Ince Festival, hosted by the Port Jefferson Business Improvement District, has brought in Rich Daly, owner of Ice Memories Inc. in Mastic Beach.

Daly, who is an award-winning ice sculptor with over 200 competition titles, including a Guinness World Record for carrying 60 sculptures in under three hours, took to the tennis courts to show several live carvings including Olaf the snowman from “Frozen” where people of all ages watched the master carver in awe.

Throughout the village, pre-made ice sculptures from Daly’s shop decorated the sidewalks outside of local businesses. In addition to the sculptures, visitors enjoyed live ice carving demonstrations, ice corn hole, marshmallow roasting, hot chocolate stands, ice mini golf, skating demos, tractor rides, karaoke, interactive games and live dance and music performances.

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