Hurricane Bill Closes Area Beaches

Ray Johnson -

This photo of the road and the boardwalk was taken from Asser Levy Park in Coney Island.

Although the sun was shining brightly, there is a haze from the sand and dust being blown around due to strong winds from Hurricane Bill.

The NYC Office of Emergency Management had issued a press release prohibiting swimming at all city beaches, except Orchard Beach in the Bronx (until further notice).

Press Release:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, August 21, 2009
No. 84
www.nyc.gov/parks
Queens, Brooklyn And Staten Island Beaches Closed To Swimming Due To Hurricane Bill:

Closures are Possible through the Weekend Due to

High Waves, Heavy Surf and Rip Currents;

Conditions Continue to be Evaluated as Hurricane Progresses

Today, the Parks Department is closing Rockaway Beach, Coney Island Beach, Manhattan Beach, South Beach, Midland Beach and Wolfe’s Pond Beach to swimming due to the approaching hurricane. Orchard Beach in the Bronx remains open assuming conditions do not deteriorate and the city’s 63 pools and 650 spray showers offer opportunities to cool off.

The National Weather Service advises that although Hurricane Bill is hundreds of miles off the coast in the Atlantic Ocean, beaches along the East Coast are beginning to see its effects today, and there are already waves eight feet tall or larger.

“As weather conditions are changing quickly, it is essential that people not enter the water at closed beaches,” said Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe. “As always, beachgoers must obey the instructions of lifeguards, Police and other Parks and security personnel.”

Impacts from Hurricane Bill are anticipated to include heavy surf, rip currents, coastal erosion, beach-over washes, and minor coastal flooding. The public can call 311 for information about beach closures and is advised to adhere to all rules and instructions at the beaches.

Hurricane Bill is currently a Category 3 Hurricane. The core of Hurricane Bill is expected to pass over the open waters between Bermuda and the east coast of the United States early Saturday.

CONTACT: Phil Abramson (212) 360-1311