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Nor’easter winds, rain strike the North Fork

By The Suffolk Times

A tree on Moores Lane in Cutchogue was in danger of fully falling over. (Credit: Brendan Carpenter)

The North Fork on Monday continued to get battered by a nor’easter that began the day before — bringing strong winds, heavy rain, flooding, downed trees and power outages to the area.

The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood for the East End through 8 p.m. Monday, with forecasters warning of dangerous surf, road flooding and possible damage to waterfront structures. Officials urged residents to avoid driving through flooded roadways or around barricades. 

High tide is projected between 4:45 and 6 p.m. along the North Fork, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Breaking waves up to 8 feet could cause beach erosion and minor damage to properties along Peconic Bay.

In Greenport, Mayor Kevin Stuessi said the storm once again highlighted chronic flooding and saltwater intrusion issues in the village’s stormwater system and aquifers.

“We are very fortunate that the storm created minimal issues in the village,” Mr. Stuessi said. “I’m thankful to our road department and electric crew who worked overnight on some minor clean-up of downed branches and utility wires.” 

  • Grandview Drive in Orient had some downed branches thrown into the road. (Credit: Brendan Carpenter)
  • A tree on Moores Lane in Cutchogue was in danger of fully falling over. (Credit: Brendan Carpenter)
  • Along Main Road in Orient (Credit: Brendan Carpenter)

Riverhead town officials issued weather and travel advisories warning residents of coastal flooding and high winds townwide. Both are in effect until later this evening. 

Flooding up to 2 feet above ground level is possible in vulnerable areas near the waterfront or shoreline, according to the weather advisory. Some portions of downtown Riverhead’s River Walk along the Peconic River were barricaded due to pooling waters. Other roadways, parking lots and parks in town may also experience inundation. 

Residents were urged to use caution when traveling, as northeast winds between 25 and 60 mph could bring down trees and power lines.

Damage from the storm taken near Browns Hills, Orient (Credit: Courtesy photo)
Damage from the storm taken near Browns Hills, Orient (Credit: Courtesy photo)

In case of an emergency, residents should call 911. Non-emergency calls can be directed to the Riverhead Police Department at (631) 727-4500. The Southold Police Department can be reached for non-emergencies at (631) 765-2600. 

The Cross Sound Ferry canceled all departures on Monday, including New London and Orient Point Lighthouse Cruises. The North Ferry between Greenport and Shelter Island is continuing to operate.

The storm is expected to fizzle out by Tuesday, with sunshine but cooler weather forecast for later in the week.

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