Nassau County, New York, has declared a state of emergency as a powerful coastal storm batters the region with steady rainfall, fierce wind gusts, and rising floodwaters. The storm poses a serious threat to low-lying waterfront communities, including Freeport, where water levels surged Sunday afternoon.
Freeport Businesses Submerged as Tide Rises
During high tide on Sunday, floodwaters inundated Jeremy’s Ale House, a well-known bar along Freeport’s Nautical Mile. Several inches of water poured inside while customers and staff were still in the building.
“As soon as the high tide started rolling in, the water just crept in from both sides,” said Fidel Abreu, a Freeport resident. “We had water on both ends.”
The incident highlights the immediate flooding risk faced by local businesses and residents in coastal zones already strained by ongoing rainfall and wind.
Due to the ongoing nor’easter, I’m declaring a State of Emergency for NYC, Long Island, & Westchester.
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) October 12, 2025
We’re ready to assist local partners as damaging winds & heavy rain move in, with the potential for flooding & power outages.
Stay vigilant & take steps now to prepare.
Officials on Alert Across Nassau County
County officials have urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel as conditions worsen. The state of emergency was declared to enable rapid response to flooding, evacuations, and power disruptions in vulnerable areas.
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said emergency teams were fully prepared to respond if the situation escalates.
“In the Town of Oyster Bay, we have over 200 pieces of equipment ready — including chainsaws, high-water vehicles, and more than 40 trucks equipped with ladders — in case we need to carry out evacuations,” Saladino stated.
Statewide Emergency Declared by Governor Hochul
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has also declared a state of emergency for parts of the state affected by the Nor’easter, warning residents of potential coastal flooding, power outages, and hazardous travel conditions.
As the Nor’easter continues to pummel New York’s coastal regions, Nassau County’s emergency declaration underscores growing concern for communities like Freeport, where floodwaters have already begun invading homes and businesses. Local and state emergency teams remain on standby as officials monitor the situation closely.
