LIPA facing lawsuit over storm readiness in Rockaways

NEW YORK -- Seventeen families whose homes in the Breezy Point area of the Rockaways burned down during Superstorm Sandy are preparing to sue the Long Island Power Authority over their losses.

The families say LIPA should have known to cut power before Sandy struck on Oct. 29. They say their homes burned when water from the storm surge hit live electrical wires.

The families are seeking $1 million in damages each. The notices of claim were filed Friday and Monday by the law firm of Sullivan, Papain, Block, McGrath and Cannavo.

New York law requires that notices of claim be served on public authorities before filing lawsuits.

A LIPA spokesman said the utility had no comment.

Consolidated Edison supplies power to most of New York City but LIPA serves the Rockaways.

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