Yesterday, the New York City Emergency Management Department released a statement saying that it is closely monitoring Hurricane Hermine and the possible effects the storm may have on the City as it moves north.
The forecast shows the tropical storm will make landfall in Florida today and will later move north up the east coast.
While it is still impossible to tell the potential impacts Hermine will have on the city, we could see strong rip currents, high surf, coastal flooding, heavy rain, and strong winds.
In the statement, NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Esposito said:
“NYC Emergency Management has been closely monitoring this system from before it became a tropical depression, and we’re gearing up for any possible impacts the City may face as a result of the storm […] September is also National Preparedness Month – we encourage all New Yorkers to make a family emergency plan, pack a Go Bag, and have an emergency supply kit to be ready for any kind of emergency.”
Hermine may strengthen to Category 1 hurricane status before it makes landfall in Florida and it is likely we will see effects from the storm on Sunday and Monday. In the press release Emergency Management gives us the following advice:
If you become caught in a rip current:
- Yell for help.
- Remain calm. Do not exhaust yourself and stay afloat while waiting for help.
- If you have to swim out of a rip current, swim parallel to the shore. Once you are away from the force of the rip current, begin to swim back toward the beach.
- Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current as you will tire quickly.
Preparing for a storm
- Prepare a Go Bag that you can grab in case you need to leave your home in a hurry. For more information about what to pack in a Go Bag, visit http://www1.nyc.gov/site/em/ready/gather-supplies.page.
- Know your flood risk. To learn more about coastal flood risk in New York City, visit the FEMA Region II Coastal Analysis and Mapping website for flood hazard information.
- Consider getting flood insurance. Protection against loss due to floods is not covered under a homeowner’s policy. Contact your property/casualty agent or broker about eligibility for flood insurance. For more information, visit the National Flood Insurance Program online atwww.floodsmart.gov.
- Make an itemized list of personal property, including furnishings, clothing, and valuables.
- Fill out an Emergency Reference Card, which will contain important contacts for you and your family in the event of any emergency.
- Learn the safest route from your home or workplace to safe, high ground in case you have to evacuate. This should be part of your household disaster plan.
- If you live in a flood-susceptible area, keep materials, such as sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, and lumber, on hand to help protect your home.
- If you have a disability, access or functional need, make sure your emergency plan addresses how your needs may affect your ability to evacuate, shelter in place, or communicate with emergency workers. Arrange help from family, friends, or service providers if you will need assistance.
For advice on preparedness and more info on the hurricane read the full press release HERE.
Featured image source: [nj]