We should all encourage Maryland residents to prepare now for an approaching hurricane.
Hurricane Sandy, which could arrive in our area as early as this Sunday.
While forecasest are uncertain, computer models have been predicting the path of the storm to move close to the Atlantic Coast States.
If the storm hits our area it is expected to move slowly
and could bring 48 hours of heavy rain and strong winds.
Potential issues could be:
Stream and tidal flooding,
trees falling,
and power outages caused by winds and wet ground.
Ocean City and Assateague Island will likely see higher waves than normal.
This is to be expected even if the storm does not make landfall.
Forecasts are predicting that Garrett County and some parts of Allegany could receive
a heavy wet snow as a cold front clashes with this warmer storm system.
The Maryland Emergency Management Agency, known as MEMA wants to inform residents of
Maryland to make plans now to deal with the possible effects of the storm.
Look to weather forecasts over the next several days to learn more about hurricane Sandy and its path.
The list of Activities to help prepare include:
Preparing for possible power outages lasting several hours or even several days.
Realize that the daytime temperatures are expected to be about 20-degrees cooler after the storm. If the
power goes out, make sure you have items like appropriate clothing to keep warm.
If using a generator, make sure it is not in a basement or garage and make sure it
is located in a safe place – no where near any doors, windows, or ventilation systems.
Make sure cell phones and other electronic devices are fully charged.
If you don’t already have one, consider purchasing a car charger.
Secure any items in your yard like lawn furniture. Don’t leave them loose.
Make sure you have a disaster supply kit with water, food that won’t spoil, a change
of clothes, extra medications, and any items you might need for infants, children, and pets.
Have a battery-operated or crank-powered radio so you can follow current events.
Stores might be very crowded on Sunday -- consider going a day or two sooner.
If you lose power, practice safe food handling. Several websites can provide further information.
If you are driving in or just after heavy rains and you see high-standing water, do not drive through it.
Always turn around – don’t drown.
For more preparedness information, please visit the following websites!
