Greenport Mayor Declares 7 p.m. State of Emergency

The Village of Greenport will officially be in a state of emergency beginning at 7 p.m. on Saturday, according to Mayor David Nyce.

The Mayor said that the biggest problem in the village — which is at sea level — will be flooding from a predicted storm surge, and that his biggest concern right now is making sure people are safe.

"A lot of water will come into the village," Nyce said. "So if you see someone on your block who needs help, please get them help if you can."

The village emergency management committee has designated as a shelter for those who don't feel safe in their homes. The shelter will open at 7 p.m.

Those who are seeking shelter should bring supplies such as medication, blankets, snacks, and water. The village has sent out an email reminder that the is not a shelter, and that all pets taken to the high school should be crated and should have food.

, and all village parks and beaches will close at noon on Saturday.

The mayor said that the emergency management team has "planned this to death" and that further action will all "depend on what Irene brings."

"I'm most concerned about that initial storm surge, but the flooding in the village usually eases back out to other places fairly quickly," he said. "I encourage people to leave if they can or to find somewhere else to stay if they don't feel safe in their own home."

Primary emergency numbers for Greenport are 631-477-2914 and 477-2973, secondary number is 631-477-3075.

For utility-related emergencies, call 631-477-0172.

Call 631-852-4900 if you or your family members have special needs.