North Fork Schools Close as Record Snowfall Blankets Area
North Fork residents face significant disruptions as a powerful winter storm blankets the area with heavy snowfall. Following Winter Storm Fern, local schools and Town Hall have been closed, impacting daily routines across the community.
Record Snowfall and School Closures
On Sunday, snowfall measurements reported up to 7.5 inches in Orient and 7.3 inches in Mattituck, according to the National Weather Service. Other areas recorded varying amounts, including:
- 7 inches in Jamesport
- 9.4 inches in downtown Riverhead
Despite predictions of over a foot, North Fork received its largest snowfall since the 2022 blizzard, which accumulated two feet of snow in some locations. The Southold, Greenport, and Mattituck-Cutchogue school districts declared snow days, allowing students to stay home as cleanup efforts began.
State of Emergency Declared
In preparation for the storm, Southold Town Supervisor Albert Krupski Jr. issued a state of emergency on Saturday evening. This declaration is in effect until 5 a.m. Tuesday. The emergency measures include a parking ban on town roadways, enabling crews to clear snow effectively.
Weather Conditions and Ongoing Threats
Snowfall commenced early Sunday and significantly intensified throughout the day, shifting to sleet and freezing rain by evening. Temperatures plunged into the low teens, creating dangerous wind chills between 5 and 15 degrees. As conditions worsened, black ice became a serious safety concern.
Looking ahead, forecasts from News 12 Long Island indicate that the Arctic blast will persist, keeping temperatures below freezing for the upcoming week. Nightly lows are expected to reach the teens and single digits.
Transportation Updates
The harsh weather conditions have also affected local transportation services. Cross Sound Ferry service was canceled on Monday, and the Long Island Rail Road operated on a weekend schedule, further complicating travel plans for residents.
The community is urged to remain cautious as road conditions may still pose risks. Continued efforts from the Highway Department are underway to ensure safe passage for all residents.
