Long Island news, weather, traffic, schools and LIRR updates for Wednesday, July 16, 2014

We've closed down our live post for the day, but there's lots to review.

To view the latest tweets from Newsday and its staff, scroll down.

(Mobile readers: Access social media posts via the link below.)

LIRR STRIKE LOOMS

The big talk of the day is, of course, the looming Long Island Rail Road strike, which is now less than four days away.

The potential shut down of the LIRR is a hot topic on social media right now. Scroll down -- or use the mobile link above -- to see tweets from commuters and officials. There you will also find the latest updates from Newsday's transportation reporter, Alfonso Castillo.

After saying that a strike would be a "pain," but not a "disaster," Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo put out a statement Wednesday morning calling for both the LIRR unions and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to return to the bargaining table.

SEE PHOTOSBuildup to LIRR deal wasn't always smooth

Who do you think is at fault, and how optimistic are you that a strike will be averted? Share your feelings in our new interactive.

WEATHER

THIS DAY IN HISTORY

Thirty-three years ago today, singer, humanitarian and Long Islander Harry Chapin died in a crash on Long Island Expressway. He was to have held a free concert at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow later that day. 

COMING UP

PET PICKUP. North Hills today will consider an animal nuisance law that requires pet owners to promptly pick up droppings on their own property. The 7:30 p.m. meeting is at Village Hall, 1 Shelter Rock Rd. Follow reporter Scott Eidler’s Twitter updates @EidzTowns.