While Hurricane Ian, currently an extremely powerful Category 4 storm, is expected to deliver a devastating blow to Florida, our area will feel some effects from the hurricane as it moves through the Southeast.
According to the National Weather Service, those effects will begin as early as Thursday with wind gusts between 30-35mph and increasing to 40-45mph on Friday. The strongest guests are expected along the coast.
There is potential for heavy rainfall, approximately 6-8 inches, across the region Friday and Saturday which could lead to flash flooding in some locations. Isolated tornadoes and minor coastal flooding are also possible.
Prepare For The Storm Now
There’s still time to prepare for the storm and here are some steps you can take now:
Gather supplies – Have enough supplies for your household, include medications, non-perishable food, bottled water, flashlights, weather radios, extra batteries, and pet supplies. Go here for a more comprehensive list.
Know Your Emergency Plan – Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your emergency plans. Include your work office, kids’ day care, and anywhere else you frequent. For tips on how to make a plan, go here.
Recognize Warnings And Alerts – Have several ways to receive alerts, including weather radios and downloading smartphone apps from local media outlets . Sign up for alerts from New Hanover County here. You can also monitor the City of Wilmington’s social media accounts on Twitter or Facebook for any updates.
Strengthen Your Home – De-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture or any other type of outdoor items that could blow away, inspect windows and doors.
Review Important Documents – Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, such as ID, are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password-protected digital space.
Help your Neighborhood – Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others.
After The Storm
Monitor News Outlets – Pay attention to local officials for information and special instructions.
Clean-Up – Be careful during clean up. Wear protective clothing, use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled, even if these individuals are not allergic to mold. Wear protective clothing and work with someone else.
Be Aware Of Your Surroundings – Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off electricity at the main breaker or fuse box to prevent electric shock. Do not wade in flood water, which can contain dangerous pathogens that cause illnesses. This water also can contain debris, chemicals, waste and wildlife. Underground or downed power lines also can electrically charge the water.
Assessing Damages – Document any property damage with photographs. Contact your insurance company for assistance.
Know These Numbers
Duke Energy/Report Power Outages: 800.419.6356 or text OUT to 57801
CFPUA Water / Sewer Emergencies: 910.332.6565
NHC Public Info. Hotline: 910.798.6800