Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Sen. Charles Schumer visited the City of Long Beach to witness first-hand the devastation left behind by Hurricane Sandy.
"I've seen a lot of communities that are hurt, but I haven't seen any as badly as Long Beach - no power, no water and lots of flooding," Schumer said.
While residents are not encouraged to remain in the city, food and water will continue to be available through FEMA until services can be restored.
Cuomo assured the crowd more supplies were delivered to Republic Airport.
While FEMA management teams are in Long Beach, claims can not yet begin to be processed. However, residents can file at FEMA.gov or call 1-800-621-3362.
"We cannot begin the reimbursement process until we have water, sewer, power as well as communications," City Manager Jack Schnirman said.
On Wednesday, city officials plead for residents to turn off their water completely. This is because the water system needs to be completely flushed.
"It is critical in regards to water that they turn off the taps in order to protect the pipes as well as the system," Schnirman said.
City officials confirmed water will be restored by early next week, however not electricity.
"The water generator is on and a truck is sitting there, however it takes several days once electricity gets going to make sure everything is on the up and up and the water is 100 percent healthy," explained Schumer.
A 7 p.m. curfew has been implemented in the city, however residents are able to return to their homes during the day to collect personal items.
New York State Troopers will be checking identification before people are allowed to enter the city.
The National Guard, Nassau County Police and Long Beach Police are patrolling the streets as well.
The city is still struggling with communicating with residents about available services and resources.
Schnirman said they have no communication resources.
This story was updated at 3 p.m. on Nov. 1.
Information supplied from Joseph Kellard who was live in Long Beach.
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