STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — It’s no longer “the calm before the storm.” Tides are rising and some streets are flooded on Staten Island, as winds caused by Hurricane Sandy are starting to hit our shores.

On the streets, traffic is light but significant. Most businesses are closed. Along the East Shore, a McDonald’s store in Grant City remained open, along with 7-Eleven stores in New Dorp and Dongan Hills, and the Family Fruit store in New Dorp. As for supermarkets in New Dorp, the Pathmark and Stop & Shop stores were closed, while the ShopRite store remained open. Owner Kevin Mannix said his two ShopRite stores — the other is in Graniteville — plans to remain open throughout the storm, as long safety is not an issue. READ MORE, VIEW PHOTO GALLERY …