The Gale Force Winds of Hurricane Hermine Expected Within 72 Hours

The gale force winds of Hurricane Hermine expected within 72 hours

Posted by MJ Brickey On 09/01/2016

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Captain of the Port (COTP) Hampton Roads set Port Condition Whiskey Thursday for the Port of Virginia in preparation for the anticipated weather impact of Hurricane Hermine. Port Condition Whiskey was set at about 2 p.m. This condition means that gale force winds are expected to reach the Virginia Capes within 72 hrs. The Port of Virginia remains open to all vessel traffic and commercial activities, however, all mariners are advised to take prudent actions in preparation of the approaching storm. Facility operators should begin making preparations to ensure all loose cargo, cargo equipment, and debris is secured. All vessel moorings should be reinforced. Vessels anchored should begin making preparations to maintain a continuous listening watch on VHF Channel 16. Vessels at facilities shall stow all unnecessary gear, ensure proper moorings, and carefully monitor cargo operations. For a complete listing of all recommended storm preparations, facilities and vessel operators are strongly encouraged to review the Port of Hampton Roads Maritime Hurricane Contingency Plan, Annex A, Tab C. This plan may be found online under “Local Contingency Plans” at: http://homeport.uscg.mil/mycg/portal/ep/portDirectory.do?tabId=1&cotpId=26 The Coast Guard requests that the public listen to weather information available from other sources and not call the Coast Guard for weather information. For information on how to prepare your boat or trailer for a storm, please visit http://www.uscg.mil/news/stormcenter/. For information on the storm’s progress and storm preparedness, please visit the National Hurricane Center's Web page at http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/. Visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency's site to stay informed and for tips to prepare and plan for the storm at http://www.ready.gov/. For additional information on the storm, visit the National Hurricane Center website http://www.nhc.noaa.gov. For breaking news, follow the 5th District on Twitter @USCGMidAtlantic.

Leonardtown, MD - The Department of Emergency Services & Technology is closely monitoring the activity of Tropical Strom Hermine. The department is advising residents to closely follow weather reports and prepare for the possibility of its impact in the region over the next few days. Threats: Possible Impacts from Tropical Storm Hermine, primarily Freshwater Flooding Timing: Saturday - Monday; September 3-5, 2016 Overview and Impacts:

• Tropical Storm Hermine is currently positioned over the eastern Gulf of Mexico. The official track from the National Hurricane Center tracks this system across northern Florida and along the southeast US coastline, eventually pushing offshore around the Outer Banks late this weekend.

• The latest forecast guidance has shifted a bit farther east which means that the heaviest rainfall is more likely our east. However, it is still possible that Hermine tracks farther west into our area.

• A track into the Mid-Atlantic would bring a primary threat of freshwater flooding to the region.

• Confidence remains low on the exact track as well as the timing of when the system may potentially impact the area.

• Please consult the latest guidance and information from the National Hurricane Center for the official forecast and effects.

You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Visit www.ready.gov for a detailed list of recommended items. Check your property for weak tree limbs, and remember to secure outdoor furniture. The trees are still somewhat in full foliage now, and unlike the middle of fall, the leaves are firmly fixed to their branches. The opportunity for downed trees and tree limbs is much higher at this time of year.

Page 1 Now is the time to check on your neighbor and see how you can help them. They may, need help contacting a family member, keeping medication refrigerated or staying safe during the storm. Help your community, check on your neighbors. The department is participating in ongoing National Weather Service conference calls to receive the latest information on the storm's track.

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