NLIS 12
September 16, 2005
(Municipal and Provincial Affairs)
 

Adverse weather conditions expected from Tropical Storm Ophelia

The Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures (NLEMO) has been advised by Environment Canada that the province could be affected by adverse weather conditions caused by Tropical Storm Ophelia which is expected to pass over the Burin Peninsula and just north of St. John's Sunday evening and Monday morning. If this track holds the south coast, central Newfoundland and the east coast could see heavy rainfall, 30 to 50 mm of rain are expected for this area, with a possibility of up to 100 mm in localized areas.

Latest forecasts indicate that high winds are expected over the Burin, Bonavista and Avalon Peninsulas, the heaviest seas are anticipated along the south coast of the Avalon and in particular in Placentia Bay, Trepassey Bay and St. Mary's Bay. Gusts could be around 100 km/hr.

Please note that the forecast track and storm intensity may change over the course of the next two days. The public is advised to monitor forecasts closely throughout the weekend.

Given the impacts of recent events such as Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf coast of the US and closer to home during Hurricane Gabrielle in September 2001, the flooding in Badger in February 2003, flooding on the west coast in March 2003, as well as the damages in Nova Scotia caused by Hurricane Juan which resulted in millions of dollars in damage and great personal loss, the general public are 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 any potential flooding and high winds and seas. The public should be listening for updated forecasts and act accordingly.

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;
  • Keep items such as lawn furniture and ladders out of the wind;
  • ure 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;
  • Ensure that cell phones are charged and that you have fresh batteries for a portable radio should the power go out;
  • 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 but advise your utility company 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 personal are available should the need arise.

All residents are advised to use caution in undertaking theses preventative measures. NLEMO is maintaining close contact with Environment Canada to monitor the progress of these weather systems.

For more weather information specific to your area contact the following websites. In the St.John's area call 772-5534.

Canadian Hurricane Centre
//www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/hurricane/track_e.html
//www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/hurricane/statements_e.html

Radar Imagery
St. John's: //www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/radar/index_e.html?id=WTP
Corner Brook: //www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/radar/index_e.html?id=XME

Satellite Imagery
//www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/satellite/animateweb_e.html?imagetype=
www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/hurricane/track_e.html

2005 09 16                                       4:00 p.m.


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