Being Prepared for Bad Weather – 9/2/2010

Posted by Bob on September 2, 2010 under Daily Blogs | Be the First to Comment

Anyone watching the news the past few days has undoubtedly heard reports of Hurricane Earl making its way up the east coast of the United States.  Given the possibility that Earl is likely to pass New England sometime on Friday (9/3/2010), the Borough’s emergency management personnel have been monitoring developments on a continuing basis throughout this week.

Current reports project Hurricane Earl to have its greatest impact on southeastern and coastal Connecticut sometime late Friday (9/3/2010) night into Saturday (9/4/2010) morning.  Such current forecasts (as of 12 Noon on Thursday, September, 2, 2010)  indicate Naugatuck may receive heavy rain and wind, but may avoid the worst the hurricane has to offer.

All forecasts, however, are just that: forecasts.  Predicting the path of hurricanes and other tropical storms involves science, but by no means have such forecasts been reduced to exact science.  We continue to monitor forecasts, in conjunction with the State of Connecticut Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS), to determine if Earl’s path is likely to deviate from current projections.

While municipal governments across the state prepare with great seriousness for weather related incidents, citizens are also urged to have plans of their own.  Despite all the government planning that occurs in anticipation of a significant weather event, time is usually needed to respond to problems in the aftermath of a storm.  Flooding, road obstructions and power outages are only some of the obstacles that emergency responders and residents face during recovery.

Most emergency management professionals recommend that residents take the necessary precautions to withstand three (3) to five (5) days without electricity and the ability to travel after major storms.  Essential supplies include ready-to-eat meals, clean water, batteries, required prescriptions, infant/child needs and pet supplies.  Ensuring all cell phones and laptop computer batteries are fully-charged in the event of a storm are also important.  For comprehensive information, DEMHS’ Connecticut Guide to Emergency Preparedness can be downloaded here.

Being prepared is our best way protect public safety and save lives and property during significant weather events.  Please continue to monitor weather updates on Hurricane Earl and view the Borough’s website, www.naugatuck-ct.gov, for important updates.  Residents may also register for Naugatuck’s “Code Red” emergency notification system on the website.