By Dan Hust
SULLIVAN COUNTY — Though hurricanes rarely strike Sullivan County as anything more than tropical storms, Hurricane Irene is expected to swing by on Sunday while still at Category 1 strength.
That means winds could be gusting as high as 100 miles per hour, though the worst of the gales is expected to stay east of the eye of the storm on Long Island.
Forecasters expect Sullivan County to be deluged with heavy rain, especially on the eastern side of the county.
“People need to be prepared,” warned Sullivan County Public Safety Commissioner Richard Martinkovic. “... Don’t plan to go anyplace on Sunday from noon till this thing is over.”
He added that the county, highway crews, fire departments and ambulance services are preparing for debris-strewn roads, power outages and flash flooding, with towns readying shelters, if necessary.
The utility companies that serve the county – NYSEG, Central Hudson and Orange & Rockland – have issued press releases stating that they have crews ready, as well.
Though the storm is expected to be out of the area by midday Monday, residents are urged to stock up on enough water, food and basic necessities for three days.
In an emergency, dial 911, but if you’re dealing with a power issue, here are the numbers to call:
• NYSEG: 1-800-572-1131
• O&R: 1-877-434-4100
• Central Hudson: 1-800-527-2714.