[UPDATE] Port Chester Preps for Big Snow Storm; Village Hall Closing Early

UPDATE (2 p.m.): Port Chester Village Hall is set to close at 3 p.m. because of today's snow storm.

Village Manager Christopher Steers said essential staff will remain, but non-essential staff will be allowed to leave. Across the village at the Village Court, today's court sessions were cancelled, although the court office was open until 2 p.m.

All Port Chester recreation activities for Friday have been cancelled, along with activities at the Port Chester Senior Center.

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Port Chester village officials got into high gear on Thursday to prepare for the snow storm that is moving into the area today.

Village Manager Christopher Steers told village Board of Trustees members that the in a conference call Thursday, storm preparations were discussed with representatives of Consolidated Edison.

Port Chester village officials also held their own preparedness meeting on Thursday, focusing on concerns about potential flooding, icy rain, gusty winds, combined with heavy snow that may lead to much tree damage and sporadic power outages.

The village's web site has been updated with a winter storm advisory and general preparedness suggestions.

Village officials are also expected to meet again early today to review storm plans.

Here's the storm notice posted by Port Chester:

WINTER STORM The National Weather Service is anticipating a mix of heavy snow, sleet, freezing rain, and strong winds. 6 to 10 inches of snow along with Ice are expected. Winds likely at 15-25 MPH with gusts up to 55 MPH. Temperatures should be in the lower 30s. The storm is expected to cause poor driving conditions and scattered power outages.
COASTAL FLOODING The National Weather service is warning of Coastal Flooding for Friday evening with 3 to 5 foot waves on top of a 3 to 5 foot tide possibly reaching the area in and around the Byram River. Flooding of vulnerable roads and or basements is possible.
Stay tuned to National Weather Service forecasts here http://www.erh.noaa.gov/okx/
STORM CHECKLIST Take these simple precautions to ensure your readiness.

• Have a lights-out kit that is well stocked and handy. The kit should have a battery-operated radio or TV, several flashlights, and a supply of fresh batteries. Local radio stations will report weather and utility service conditions.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings.
• If you have a well and a water pump, fill your bathtub and spare containers with water.
• Protect your major appliances and any electronically-sensitive equipment, such as computers.
• Fill your car's gas tank.

POWER OUTAGES

• The Village can only forward outage information on to Con Edison. The best method to report an outage is to call it in to Con Edison yourself. Doing so every few hours will ensure that Con Edison is aware of the situation in your area.  You can use http://www.coned.com/reportoutage to report an outage directly to Con Edison. Or, you can call 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633).
• Take steps to prevent food spoilage. Click here for tips on handling food and water.
• Stay indoors. If you must go outside, stay away from downed and dangling lines. Treat all downed lines as if they are live and dangerous.
• If you use a portable generator, follow its important, life-saving instructions. Click here for more information on generators.
• Listen to your battery-operated radio on for updates on our restoration progress and safety tips.
• Use candles and storm lanterns carefully. Keep them out of drafts, away from flammable materials, and out of the reach of children.