Hurricane Sandy has made landfall in New Jersey, the winds have kicked up, and Riverside Park South is submerged under water. Schools and the stock market are closed on Tuesday, and basically all events have been cancelled. Don’t go into parks. In fact, don’t go outside. Just got this from the city’s Office of Emergency Management:
“Alert issued 10/29/12 08:00 PM. Due to severe storm conditions, all NYC residents are being instructed to go indoors immediately and to remain indoors until further notice. Go indoors , and stay away from windows. Only use 9-1-1 for emergencies.”
We have heard from numerous Upper West Siders throughout the neighborhood that their lights are flickering, and some report that their internet is out. Con Edison has informed Manhattanites below 36th Street that there’s a chance their power will be turned off. It’s safe to assume that we’re in danger of a large-scale power outage.
“Con Edison continues to monitor underground electrical delivery equipment in other areas of Manhattan south of 36th Street, along with section of Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx, for flooding and possible shutdowns.”
It doesn’t make sense at this point to go outside. We’ve seen images of walk signals in Manhattan that fell off their poles, and large signs dangling from buildings. And while the massive crane that partially collapsed this afternoon is on 57th, there’s also a large crane on 77th Street and Broadway (no indication that it’s in trouble, but with high winds it’s certainly disconcerting). More tips from Con Ed:
- If you see downed electrical wires, do not go near them. Treat all downed wires as if they are live. Never attempt to move or touch them with any object. Be mindful that downed wires can be hidden from view by tree limbs, leaves or water.
- Report all downed wires to Con Edison and your local police department immediately. If a power line falls on your car while you’re in it, stay inside the vehicle and wait for emergency personnel.
- If your power goes out, turn off all lights and appliances to prevent overloaded circuits when power is restored.
- Check to make sure your flashlights and any battery-operated radios are working. Also, make sure you have a supply of extra batteries. Weather updates and news on power outages can be heard on most local radio and television stations.
- Avoid opening your freezer to see if food is still frozen. Every time you open the door, room-temperature air enters and speeds the thawing process. Most fully loaded freezers will keep food frozen for approximately 36 to 48 hours; half-full freezers will keep food frozen for approximately 24 hours.
Keep us informed of what you’re seeing and hearing!
Photo of rope on an awning at West End Avenue by Laura Weiss.
Quite a few flickers here on RSB, but we have power and Internet (go FIOS!)
lights flickering on W 75th St. Eyewitness News is too on W 67th St.