The following is being distributed at the request of the Newfoundland & Labrador Emergency Measures Organization:

Caution: Hurricane Fabian expected to cause adverse weather conditions

The Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures Organization (NLEMO) has been advised by Environment Canada that the Avalon Peninsula could be affected by adverse weather conditions caused by the remnants of Hurricane Fabian which is expected to pass south east of the Avalon Peninsula on Sunday afternoon and Monday morning, September 7-8, 2003.

Conditions could see possible high winds, heavy rain and storm surges. Given the impacts of recent events such as Tropical Storm Gabrielle in September 2001 and the Badger flood, February 2003, and on the flooding West Coast of the island in March 2003, each of which resulted in millions of dollars in damage and great personal loss to the general public, the public is advised to take appropriate actions to mitigate against possible damage.

Municipalities, home and business owners and fish harvesters are advised to take every precaution to prevent damages that could be caused by flooding, storm surges and/or high winds.

Some steps to follow are:

• Ensure all drains are free from debris.
• Clean out window and door wells, close all windows, etc.
• Ensure that sump pumps are working.
• Ensure any items such as lawn furniture, ladders, etc. are kept out of the wind.
• All exposed fishing gear and boats both commercial and pleasure craft should be secured.
• Dead branches from trees that could pose a hazard should be removed in a safe manner.
• Ensure that cell phones are charged and that you have fresh batteries for a portable radio should the power go out.
• Should a basement flood, ensure that the power is shut off at the main breaker before stepping into water. Care should be taken to prevent electrocution.
• Property owners should advise their municipal officials if they become aware of excessive flooding on streets or blocked drains or culverts.
• Should you become aware of downed power lines, do not touch these, but advise Newfoundland Power immediately.
• Municipalities are advised to ensure that all measures such as the clearing of storm sewers, culverts, bridges, drains, etc. are free from debris and that emergency personnel are available should the need arise.
• All residents are advised to use caution in undertaking these preventative measures.

For further weather information the public may call 772-5534.

www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca
www.atl.ec.gc.ca/weather/hurricane/

Media contact: Lynn Salter, Communications, (709) 729-1983

2003 09 05                                        3:40 p.m.