Public Advisory: Update Provided on Hurricane Maria

Fire and Emergency Services – Newfoundland and Labrador (FES-NL) is encouraging all residents and communities to take measures to ensure they are in the best possible position to manage the potential effects of weather systems expected to arrive over the province today.

Environment Canada (EC) advises that Hurricane Maria is expected to make landfall this afternoon (Friday, September 16) and cross the isthmus of the Avalon Peninsula, bringing with it significant rainfall and hurricane-force winds. Numerous warnings have been issued for areas along the Avalon Peninsula and beyond, as the storm will bring high wind and waves to areas along the western region and coastal Labrador. Wind gusts are expected from 100 to 120 kilometres an hour for the Burin and Avalon Peninsulas today, with more warnings up for additional areas along the northern peninsula, west coast, Labrador and the eastern regions for tomorrow (Saturday, September 17). Rainfall amounts of 50 to 90 millimetres are forecast for Eastern Newfoundland, with the heavier rain expected to end in all areas late this evening. EC advises the anticipated wind gusts can topple trees and break large branches, resulting in downed utility lines and potential power interruptions. Damage may also be possible to building cladding and roofing material as a result of 120 kilometre an hour winds.

A link from the Provincial Government home page will provide information on storm conditions and relevant public safety information – www.gov.nl.ca 

Residents must be diligent in emergency preparations to ensure their personal safety. .

Tips for municipalities, commuters, and residents can be found in the backgrounder provided below.

In an emergency, residents are reminded to contact the police and/or local fire department for assistance as appropriate. If flooding occurs, residents should contact their municipality. Should communities become unable to cope with local emergencies, they may contact FES-NL for assistance.

Residents and community officials should keep the following emergency numbers close at hand:

• Royal Newfoundland Constabulary: 709-729-8000
• RCMP: 1-800-709-7267 or 709-772-5400
• Newfoundland Power: 1-800-474-5711 or 1-888-491-5066
• Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro: 1-888-764-9376
• Fire and Emergency Services - Newfoundland and Labrador: 709-729-3703

The latest information on Tropical Storm Maria can be found at: www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/hurricane/track_e.html 

More information on personal preparedness can be found at: www.gov.nl.ca/fes or www.getprepared.ca 

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Media contact:
Cheryl Gullage
Public Relations Specialist
Fire and Emergency Services - Newfoundland and Labrador
709-729-0857, 631-9962
cherylgullage@gov.nl.ca

BACKGROUNDER
Storm Advice for Communities and Residents

Municipalities
FES-NL is engaging community officials throughout the province to exchange the most current information with regards to warnings and advisories as they materialize. Community leaders and town managers are also encouraged to check with insurance companies to fully understand policies and coverage in the event of impacts as a result of Tropical Storm Maria wind. In addition, municipalities must be diligent in ensuring that all storm sewers, culverts, bridges, and drains are free from debris ahead of this system and that emergency personnel are aware and available should weather conditions warrant.

Residents
In advance of Tropical Storm Maria, residents should assess their individual situations to determine the steps they can take to ensure their safety and security.

Some important tips for individuals to keep in mind before and during storms of this nature:

• Know the risks in your specific region;
• Follow local weather forecasts, especially warning or advisories;
• Ensure sump pumps are in working order;
• Keep all drains free from debris;
• Remove dead tree branches, which could pose a hazard or threat;
• Ensure all patio furniture, barbeque equipment and yard tools are secured to avoid potential damage in high winds;
• Prepare and maintain an emergency kit. Be ready to cope on your own for at least 72 hours, to allow first responders to help those in urgent need. Instructions on preparing a kit can be found at www.gov.nl.ca/fes/epw/readykitgo.html;
• Develop an emergency plan. Keep in mind the specific requirements of any person in your household with a medical condition, mobility issues, or other special needs;
• Account for the needs of any household pets and ensure animals normally kept outdoors are safe from wind and rain;
• Be aware of all local emergency numbers;
• Understand your insurance policy and potential coverage for fire and emergency situations;
• A reminder that cordless phones will not work in the event of a power outage;
• Should you notice downed power lines in your area, do not touch or attempt to move, but instead advise your utility provider immediately;
• If you become aware of flooding on streets or blocked culverts, contact municipal officials to advise them of the situation.

Commuters
In times of severe adverse weather, commuters should avoid travelling on roadways unless absolutely necessary.

Should travel be necessary, the following should be kept in mind:

• Ensure someone is aware of your travel plans and the time you anticipate arriving at your destination. Also be sure to check in once you reach your intended destination.
• Be ready to pull over in a safe location should conditions become too intense to reach your destination.
• An emergency preparedness kit should be assembled for your vehicle, including booster cables, a blanket, water, non-perishable food items (such as energy bars, which keep well in a vehicle), a flashlight, a battery powered or wind-up radio, poncho, first-aid kit, multi-purpose knife and other essential items.

2011 09 16                                           10:20 a.m.