Supervisor Declares Snow Emergency In Riverhead

Supervisor Sean Walter declared a state of emergency in Riverhead Town due to the snow on Friday afternoon.

The declaration, which was made at approximately 4:30 p.m., means that all cars will be removed from public roads if parked there.

"We want people to refrain from driving," Walter said. "This is the perfect time for a snowstorm -- Friday night into Saturday. Everyone should hunker down, relax, enjoy the enormous snowflakes, and, if you do not have a snow blower, pay some young, healthy children to shovel this heavy, wet snow."

Walter suggested residents enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and watch Mother Nature's show -- while staying safely inside. "Enjoy it," he said.

Riverhead Police Chief David Hegermiller told the public that conditions have "severely deteriorated" on the roadways "and will not improve for some time. Driving in the town has become extremely hazardous and treacherous," he said. "Travel is not recommended."

All vehicles, he said, must be removed from roadways to give the town's highway department access to plow the snow.

Earlier Friday, the town's police department listed other tips for handling the storm.

In case of an emergency, residents are asked to dial 911 or call the Riverhead police department at 631-727-4500.

"If you can, stay home, and as always, stay informed and stay safe," Hegermiller said.