Hurricane season: Long Islanders with pets advised to prepare for power outages, evacuations

As the Atlantic hurricane season nears its peak, officials are warning Long Islanders to be prepared for power outages and possible evacuations — and not to forget their pets.

Suffolk County Executive Edward Romaine highlighted the risks of what the National Weather Service has predicted as an overactive hurricane season, expected to bring 25 named storms in the Atlantic Basin, 8 to 13 hurricanes and four to seven major storms through the Nov. 30 hurricane season.

"If we know the history of Long Island and the history of hurricane season, we know it’s coming. I’m praying it’s not this year or any year soon," Romaine said, noting it’s been nearly 12 years since Superstorm Sandy. "The best way to get ready for it is by preparing for it."

County officials, who were flanked by about a dozen service dogs at the county’s H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge, said residents should be prepared to flee if a major storm hits. Residents should have emergency bags packed with medication, a flashlight and nonperishable food for a power outage or evacuation, said Legis. Dominick Thorne (R-Patchogue), chairman of the county’s Fire, Rescue, Emergency Medical Services and Preparedness Committee.

Nassau and Suffolk county officials have warned of needed preparations at the start of the hurricane season in June. Two tropical storms and three hurricanes have already formed off the Caribbean. The storms so far have avoided Long Island, including Hurricane Ernesto, which has veered north into open waters in the Mid-Atlantic.

Pet owners are also encouraged to keep supplies for their pets, including at least five days worth of food in waterproof containers, a pet first aid kit and any medication for their animals, said Gabi Lugo, an instructor with America’s VetDogs, a charity that pairs service dogs with veterans and military service members.

Pet owners are also encouraged to make a plan on where to evacuate with pets. Suffolk County community colleges in Brentwood, Selden and Riverhead will accept all animals, if they are activated as evacuation centers, Thorne said.

Rob Misseri, who leads the dog and cat rescue group Paws of War, said residents should learn from past storms so animals don’t get left behind.

"I was active as a rescuer during Sandy, and I cannot describe what we witnessed trying to save animals. We witnessed a horrific number of animals losing their life because of it," Misseri said. "Most importantly, be prepared today. Don't wait. Get everything ready, because when that storm comes, you won't have the time."

By John Asbury

john.asbury@newsday.comJohnAsbury

John Asbury is a breaking news and general assignment reporter. He has been with Newsday since 2014 and previously worked at The Press-Enterprise in Riverside, California.