Full Notification

This is early notification of a situation I am certain you are all generally aware of, the impending arrival of Hurricane Irene. We have been in touch with state and federal authorities regarding the approach of this storm, and (as it always seems) the outlook is very uncertain, and the track is very variable. Just a day ago we were looking at the situation and thinking (hoping) that we would get a glancing blow as the storm tracked East. Presently the cone of variability places the storm on a more likely westerly track which would mean greater impact in the Berks & Lehigh County area.

No flooding or rain forecast products of any real value are available for our area at this time. As NWS tightens up the forecast, and these products are made available, I will pass them on as appropriate.

Current actions should consist of reviewing emergency plans and focusing on staffing and equipment availability Sat evening through Monday. Apart from flooding, we could experience high winds with the accompanying electrical outage impacts. Our electrical utilities do a great job forward positioning resources, but this storm system is large and it should be anticipated that electrical crews will be stretched thin with limited ability to tap neighboring resources Therefore, any outages could be extended in duration.

On a personal level, please help to share with your family and friends the need to have emergency supplies on hand (food, water, medications, etc.) for at least 72 hours. There are a lot of us out there, and if we each remind 2-3 people and ask that they remind 2-3 people, etc. the effect on overall community preparedness can be highly magnified. Individuals in low lying areas should have a “go bag” ready and be prepared to move quickly if flooding appears likely. This means having a place to go pre-planned, and having a plan for what to do with pets. Also, please remember to check early with friends or family who may be in need of additional support such as those who are elderly, disabled, or economically challenged.

Thank you for your help in spreading a message of preparedness in your organization and in the community at large. Hopefully in a few days the storm will have blown by us and we will all be able to have viewed this as a great exercise of our personal, family, and local plans.

Note: There is a high risk of this being a very damaging, life threatening event. All pre-storm activities should be rushed to completion. Be prepared to take additional action if hurricane watches and warnings are ssued.

Additional information will be sent as we receive it from the County, Remember, if we get high winds from this system, anything not securely fastened down will be blowing around and may cause additional damage to a house or car. Please follow this storm on your local stations as it moves up the eastern coastline.