Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Will we take a direct hit from Irene?

According to local meteorologists and the National Hurricane Center it looks like the answer is yes.

Of course, you certainly know that already - if you cruise the internet enough to visit Progressive Charlestown, you no doubt know the weather report.

Note that the National Weather Service is currently predicting rain to start after 1 PM on Saturday, so it would be a good idea to work on your outdoor storm preparations before then. If you need to go up on ladders to put up hurricane shutters or panels, you should plan to do it before then.


Stores will probably be very crowded on Saturday with people looking to stock up.

The American Red Cross suggests the following storm preparations:

* Get a three-day supply of water ready for each person (one gallon per person, per day) along with food that doesn't require refrigeration, flashlights, a battery-operated radio and a first aid kit.

* Be sure to have several days supply of prescriptions that are taken by the plan.

* Plan routes to emergency shelters and register family members with special needs with local authorities as required.

* Make plans for pets, including extra food or medications they might need.

* Bring inside any items that can be picked up by the wind.

* Turn off any propane tanks and unplug small appliances.

* Fill your vehicle's gas tank.

* If high wind is forecast, close windows, doors and hurricane shutters. If shutters aren't an option, close and board up doors and windows with plywood.

Hee's the hurricane preparation page from Charlestown's Emergency Management.

GoLocalProv also has a very good weather page and they've been all over Hurricane Irene for several days now.