Hurrincane Irene Morning On Roosevelt Island - Things Seem OK But Waiting For East River High Tide Coming Soon

So, what going on this morning with Hurricane Irene on Roosevelt Island? Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) advisory at 8:25 reported:

Please be aware that Tropical Storm force winds have reached the NYC area.  In addition, High Tide for Roosevelt Island is listed at 11:05 am today.

Several trees have been reported down on Roosevelt Island. Presently none are blocking Main Street.

All Transportation Systems on the Island remain suspended until further notice.

It is advised that all residents remain inside for the duration of the weather event.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

The NYC Mayor's Office Tweeted shortly after 9 AM:

We are in the midst of the most dangerous period of the storm, so for your safety, continue to remain indoors.

Susan S Arcelay Tweeted an hour ago:

 Just up on Roosevelt Island. Wind, Rain and rising river but still have power and it's fairly quiet. Hoping Irene is kind to us.

Gordie M Tweeted an hour ago

 Still windy & raining on Roosevelt Island. Damage I can see limited to a few leaves blown off trees

A Roosevelt Islander and dog went out for a walk around 9:30.

Here's a You Tube Video of flooding in Lower Manhattan from Hurricane Irene.



Manhattan Park resident Dottie reported:

Manhattan Park apartment is across from the RI Bridge. East River is indeed rising. The confluence of the 8 AM high tide, new moon, and heavy winds and rains does not bode well for normal water levels! Hang tight all -- indoors!

Last night I asked RIOC about the Roosevelt Island Bridge:

Mayor Bloomberg has stated that Bridges will be closed if winds reach a speed of 60 mph.

I'm getting questions about whether the Roosevelt Island Bridge will remain open.

Does RIOC expect to close the RI Bridge.

RIOC Community Relations Specialist Erica Wilder replied:

The Roosevelt Island Bridge is under the jurisdiction of New York City's Department of Transportation. In addition to the information outlets that we have provided through our advisories, we ask that everyone receive timely alerts on all New York City bridge closures and other significant events related to the storm via local news/ radio stations, 311 or through NYC's 24hr emergency notification system- NOTIFY NYC (www.nyc.gov/notifynyc) which delivers emergency public information through text, email, or recorded telephone calls.

Things are looking better but still waiting for high tide around 11 AM.