Locals Ready for Winter's First Snow Storm

Locals are buzzing as the first major snow storm of winter 2013 approaches, bringing with it up to 15 inches of snow and gusting winds.

It's the usual pre-storm frenzy as residents brave packed grocery and hardware stores for the essentials like bread, milk, eggs, and "warming libations," before taking a deep breath at crowded gas stations while waiting to fill up.

"Just repaired some siding that came loose from Sandy," one Northport Patch reader wrote on our Facebook Page. "Brought in three loads of fire wood, have to get milk. Why are milk, eggs and bread the staple when they call for a storm?? LOL Moved the power snow shovel into the house and lined up the power cord so all I have to do is plug it in. Salt is ready at the front door. Pretty much set here, except have to fill up the cars with gas today....Be safe everyone!"

Other readers lamented the inevitable slog through long lines at the grocery store and noted that gas stations are already jammed.

On one reader's list are the basics. "Bacon, Steaks, Taters, Grey Goose, Brownies and a Cuban! It pays to have teenage sons!"

And don't forget some cash on hand, wrote another. "Taking money out the ATM to pay someone to shovel."

School districts, municipalities, and libraries are largely holding off decisions on closures and delays as the storm nears. Huntington, South Huntington, Elwood, and Northport school districts have not announced delays or closures although there is a likelihood that evening programs will be cancelled.

Garbage will be picked up an hour earlier (5 a.m.) in the Town of Huntington because of the anticipated impact of the storm, so be aware. The Town also warns that empty garbage cans might be blown around by the storm so be sure to take them in.

Power outages are a major possibility in this storm as the National Weather Service predicts wind gusts of up to 60 miles per hour, making it extremely important to gather extra blankets, fire wood, and generators to keep yourself warm in the frigid temperatures. You can check out some other preparedness tips from the American Red Cross here.

How are you preparing for the storm? Are the stores and gas lines crazy? Tell us in the comments below.