Home Police and Fire Breaking News Violent storm blows through North Fork knocking down trees and causing power...

Violent storm blows through North Fork knocking down trees and causing power outages

An electrical fire burns on Route 48 in Cutchogue after a violent thunderstorm blew through the area. Photo: Katharine Schroeder

An intense thunderstorm roared across the North Fork this morning causing power outages and knocking down tree limbs on local roadways.

Southold Town Police reported several roads blocked by downed branches, including Cox Lane and Bridge Lane in Cutchogue. There were also reports of downed trees in Orient.

An electrical fire was sparked on Route 48 just east of Depot Lane at around 10:30. Police were monitoring the fire, which was burning on the north side of the roadway until PSEG arrived on the scene shortly afterwards and cut power to the area to repair the problem. The traffic light at Route 48 and Cox Lane was not functioning; police were on hand directing traffic.

As of 10:40 a.m. power had been restored to much of the area, but according to PSEG Long Island, there are still over 300 people without power in Cutchogue. 

A large tree limb blocks southbound Cox Lane in Cutchogue. Photo: Katharine Schroeder
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Katharine is a writer and photographer who has lived on the North Fork for nearly 40 years, except for three-plus years in Hong Kong a decade ago, working for the actor Jackie Chan. She lives in Cutchogue. Email Katharine