NLIS 2
September 12, 2006
(Municipal Affairs)
The following is distributed at the
request of the Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures
Organization:
Adverse weather conditions
expected from Hurricane Florence
The Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency
Measures Organization (NLEMO) has been advised by Environment Canada
that eastern Newfoundland could be affected by adverse weather
conditions caused by Hurricane Florence which is expected to pass south
east of the Avalon on Wednesday and Thursday morning, September 13 and
14.
As the storm passes, heavy rain, high seas and strong winds are
forecasted to accompany this storm. Heavy surf may be especially strong
along the southern Avalon and over the Burin Peninsula.
Municipalities are advised to take measures to ensure that storm sewers
are clear; culverts, bridges, drains, etc. are free from debris; and
that emergency personal are available should the need arise.
Home, business and boat owners are advised to take every precaution to
prevent damages that could be caused by any potential flooding and
higher than normal tides.
The public are advised to listen for updated forecasts and to be
vigilant in taking appropriate precautionary measures to mitigate
against possible property damage.
Recommended 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;
- Keep items such as lawn furniture
and ladders out of the wind;
- Secure exposed fishing gear, and
both commercial boats and pleasure craft;
- Remove, in a safe manner, dead tree
branches from trees that could pose a hazard;
- Should basement flooding occur,
ensure that the power is shut off at the main breaker before
stepping into water. Care should be taken to prevent electrocution.
If you are unsure call a licensed electrician;
- 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;
- All residents are advised to use
caution in undertaking these preventative measures.
The public is encouraged to ensure that
cell phones are charged and to have fresh batteries for a portable radio
on hand in the event of a power outage.
NLEMO is maintaining close contact with Environment Canada to monitor
the progress of these weather systems.
For further weather information the public may call Environment Canada
in St. John�s at (709) 772-5534, Gander at (709) 256-6868 or in the
western region at (709) 637-4570, or visit:
www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/hurricane/index_e.html
Media contact:
John Tompkins, Communications, (709) 729-1983, 690-2498
Lynn Salter, Communications, (709)729-0084, 693-5801
2006 09 12
12:40 p.m. |