Categories: Expert Commentary

Tips On Preparing for Hurricane Sandy

For real-time updates on Hurricane Sandy’s impact and Inova’s closures, cancellations and other news, click here: www.inovanewsroom.org/hurricane-sandy – (October 26, 2012)

As most of you know, the National Capital Region has the potential for impacts from Hurricane Sandy beginning sometime late Sunday into Monday (latest tracking map).

The National Weather Service anticipates a Sunday into Monday change in weather to include some rain (1” to 2” depending) and NNW winds 15 to 20 MPH; some gusts slightly higher. The snow (Nor’easter) issue the media is talking about is a worst case (perfect storm) scenario as is the track that takes Sandy up the coast and landfall in our area (Delmarva) — perhaps even a New Jersey landfall. Even then, tropical storm conditions would occur in our area.

This is expected to be a slow moving/long lasting system with gusty tropical storm force winds, heavy rain and flooding. NWS advises that the best forecast to provide specifics for impacts in the NCR won’t be until Saturday, even possibly Sunday. NWS forecaster’s note the main concerns are wind damaged trees and downed power lines. Please note: this storm has made several changes in the past 24 hours so any shift further West could bring more significant rainfall and much greater wind gusts.

Please prepare for the storm by considering the following:

Put all important documents such as insurance policies, cash and credit cards in waterproof containers.
Keep canned or packaged food, a manual can opener, first aid kit, battery operated radio and flashlights with extra batteries on hand in the event that they are needed.
Because the hurricane may cause severe wind, prevent damage from flying debris by trimming trees and shrubs and moving all lawn furniture, garbage cans and other loose items inside. Also, be sure that you clear any debris from rain gutters and downspouts.
Fill your car’s gas tank and make sure that you have cash on hand in case local authorities issue an evacuation order.
Listen to your local radio and television stations for updated storm information. Plan ahead about where you would go if told to evacuate and determine the safest route to get there.
Prepare for possible power outages by filling plastic containers with water, leaving an inch of space in each one, and placing them in your refrigerator or freezer. The frozen water will keep food cold for several hours if the power goes out.
If you smell gas or hear a hissing or blowing sound, open a window and leave immediately.
If electric wires are shorting out, turn off the power. In the event that electrical power is lost, turn off all major appliances. They can overload electric lines when power is restored, causing a second outage.

For those who may be in the path of Sandy, hurricane safety tips are right on your phone by downloading these useful apps:

FEMA – Android, Apple, Blackberry
American Red Cross “Hurricane” app – Android, Apple

Find the latest Hurricane Sandy forecast from the National Hurricane Center:

You may also want to download Inova’s Visit Inova mobile app. Featuring our latest ER Wait Times, our ER locations and directions, and visiting information:

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