Smithtown Prepares For Winter Storm; Crews Pre-Treat Roads, Urge Drivers To Stay Off Streets

SMITHTOWN, NY — Town of Smithtown officials say highway, parks, and public safety crews are preparing for a winter storm expected to impact the area late Friday through Saturday.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Suffolk County, forecasting hazardous travel conditions as snow moves into the region overnight.

According to town officials, the Smithtown Highway Department began brining and pretreating roadways and sidewalks on Friday, using a beet-juice brine to help prevent icing. Snow removal and treatment operations are expected to continue throughout the night and for the duration of the storm.

The town’s Department of Parks, Buildings & Grounds has also staged snow removal equipment, fueled generators and snow blowers, and coordinated response plans with Highway and Public Safety crews, officials said.

Residents are being urged to avoid driving while snow is falling, if possible, and to keep vehicles off curbside areas, particularly on residential streets, to allow plows to clear roads efficiently.

Smithtown’s Department of Public Safety has activated its Emergency Operations Center and is coordinating with Suffolk County officials and PSEG Long Island in the event of power outages. Officials reminded residents to use caution if travel is unavoidable and to keep emergency supplies in their vehicles.

Town officials also asked residents to check on elderly neighbors and individuals with special needs, ensure pets remain indoors during freezing conditions, and avoid blocking fire hydrants with snow during cleanup.

Crews will remain staffed overnight and throughout the storm, rotating as needed to maintain continuous coverage until roads and public facilities are cleared and conditions are deemed safe.

Residents are encouraged to monitor official Town of Smithtown communications, including the town’s mobile app, for updates as conditions change.