Today, Governor Kathy Hochul directed State Parks to suspend swimming at Long Island ocean beaches due to flooding and rough surf conditions resulting from Hurricane Franklin.
Hurricane Franklin Won’t Hit Long Island, But Still Affects Our Waters
Hurricane Franklin is an offshore storm, and while it will not make landfall on Long Island, it is still affecting the surf conditions on Long Island Beaches.
“As peak hurricane season approaches, the safety of all New Yorkers remains my top priority,” Governor Hochul said. “With tropical storms and hurricanes affecting our beaches on Long Island, we are taking proactive steps to protect New Yorkers, and I urge everyone to remain vigilant.”
The restrictions are expected to be in place at Robert Moses, Hither Hills and Jones Beach State Parks as long as adverse conditions persist. All three ocean beaches experienced significant water levels today, including flooding at the Jones Beach beachfront and unpassable areas at Robert Moses and Hither Hills.
These three State Parks posted red flags on the beachfront to warn visitors that swimming is prohibited. Lifeguards remain on duty to prevent anyone from entering the water. Swimming remains available at Sunken Meadow and Wildwood State Parks on Long Island Sound, which are not experiencing dangerous impacts from the storm. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation will continue monitoring conditions across state parks.
“Even if they are far away, hurricanes and tropical storms are powerful events that cause dangerous and unpredictable conditions at our swimming beaches,” Eric Kulleseid, New York State Commissioner for Parks, said. “We urge all park visitors to take these events seriously and follow all direction of our lifeguards and park staff.”
Smith Point County Park Will Extend Summer Season
Nevertheless, with school starting up soon, Long Islanders discouraged by this loss of beach days can rest assured, as Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone is set to announce tomorrow that beaches in Suffolk County will remain in summer mode for a little while longer at Smith Point County Park.
“While Suffolk County beaches are not typically staffed with lifeguards post Labor Day, this year lifeguards will stay on the stands for an additional two weekends to provide additional opportunities for residents and visitors to safely enjoy the park and its beautiful beaches,” Bellone’s office said in a news release.
