This has been a very busy year for tropical storms and hurricanes and it does not appear that we have seen the end of it for this year. The storm season often extends into October. The information below can help you to be prepared and to understand what the storm warnings given out through the media mean.

Tropical Storm Warning —Tropical storm conditions with sustained winds from 30 to

73 mph are expected in the warning area within the next 24 hours.

Tropical Storm Watch —Tropical storm conditions with sustained winds from 39 to 73 mph

are possible in the watch area within the next 36 hours.

BEFORE a Tropical Storm Occurs:

• Make sure you have ready access to emergency equipment such as flashlights,
• first aid kits, and battery operated radios.
• Make plans to protect your building(s).
• Check and clear roof drains, scuppers, gutters and storm drains to ensure
• proper water drainage.
• Secure loose outdoor objects or bring them inside.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power surge when
• electricity is restored.

A backup generator is always useful in an emergency situation. If you do have one,

inspect it periodically to make sure it will function properly when needed. Due to

potential CO poisoning, a generator should be placed only in outside areas away from

windows and doors.

DURING and AFTER a tropical storm:

• Listen for current weather reports and emergency information.
• Drive only when necessary. The streets may be filled with debris and
• standing water, making roads impassable.
• Stay away from downed power lines and trees.
• Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the
• power company, police, or fire department.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your building(s) if they
• become wet. In addition, call a water damage remediation company
• immediately to begin water removal and drying.
• Stay tuned to local radio stations for situation updates.

More information on preparedness and tropical storms can be found at:

National Hurricane Center at www.nhc.noaa.gov

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at  www.fema.gov