The Long Island Rail Road is bracing for a “frankenstorm” this weekend.
Long Islanders can expect disruptions to mass-transit as Hurricane Sandy threatens to morph into a so-called “frankenstorm” before hitting the region early next week, with planes, trains and public buses all potentially impacted.
Some U.S. airlines are offering waivers to customers who wish to reschedule their flight, including JetBlue, US Airways and Spirit Airlines. Other airlines are also monitoring the storm and planning to update passengers later Friday.
The MTA issued a statement that heavy rains, strong winds and flooding that the storm might bring has prompted Long Island Rail Road crews securing equipment needed to clear tracks of possible downed trees. Railroad crossings may also been removed.
The LIRR typically suspends service when winds reach more than 50 mph. Sandy is a Category 2 storm with 105 mph winds as of Friday afternoon as it churned through the Caribbean, claiming 38 lives.
The Nassau Inter County Express, or the NICE bus as it is better known, is also monitoring the forecast for the potential of roadway flooding that may cause delays and service interruptions. Service on routes that include areas susceptible to flooding and which could become impassable, may be impacted, the agency said in a statement.
The New York City Subway system was also shut down when Tropical Storm Irene hit last August.
LIRR riders should visit www.mta.info/lirr for more information. NICE bus riders can log on to www.nicebus.com.
Those hoping to fly in or out of affected areas are asked to check their flight status before heading to the airport. To cancel, they should call the airline directly.
-With Associated Press
