Westhampton Beach: Ready For Possible Storm

With a possible storm on the horizon, Westhampton Beach officials say they are prepared to house residents, if an evacuation is necessary.

"We have established procedures within our offices, if the need for the shelter to be opened arrises," said Rebecca Molinaro, village clerk, "We are closely watching the storm and our police department is in contact with the appropriate agencies at this point."

If the village shelter is opened, it will be the first time it will be used since it was established in late August.

The decision to create a shelter came a year after Hurricane Irene wreaked havoc across Long Island and Westhampton Beach residents were evacuated, and sent to the Southampton Town shelter at Hampton Bays High School.

After the storm, Westhampton Beach Mayor Contrad Teller said he felt that in an emergency situation, driving 20 minutes to the east was not ideal for residents.

As a result, the village teamed up with the Westhampton Beach School District to work to establish a shelter at the Westhampton Beach High School if an emergency arrises.

For more news from Westhampton Beach, click here.

Let Patch save you time. Get great local stories like this delivered right to your inbox or smartphone everyday with our free newsletter. Simple, fast sign-up here.