Hurricane Michael is beginning to make landfall in Florida as a major category 4 storm. The storm is expected to weaken as it moves over land and approaches southeast Virginia and northeast North Carolina late Thursday evening into very early Friday morning.
At this time, the Eastern Shore should begin to experience effects of Michael around 5-6 pm on Thursday. Rain will begin to increase, gradually getting heavier until slowing around 2 am. Up to 3-6 inches of rain is expected for our area. Tropical storm force winds are possible, with maximum sustained winds of up to 40 mph with gusts up to 50 mph or higher early Friday morning until about 7 am. Minor tidal flooding is a possibility on the bayside.
Preparation
Emergency Management officials are advising all residents to prepare for high winds by securing outdoor items such as lawn furniture, gas grills, etc.
*Cape Charles residents should expect low-lying areas to flood and take precautions by moving vehicles and equipment to higher ground no later than Thursday morning. This is a fast-moving storm and we may see several inches of rain in a short period of time. Residents are reminded that it is not safe to drive or walk through any standing water. Please DO NOT put any yard debris, brush or other trash on the street curb. Such debris can pose a safety hazard in strong winds and will clog storm drains and increase flooding risks.
At this time, the Northampton County Emergency Operations Center will not be open, and no evacuations are planned. Emergency Management officials are monitoring the storm and participating in regular conference calls for updates. Residents should continually monitor local media outlets for information regarding the track of Hurricane Michael. Storm movement is subject to change.
Other Preparations
Boat owners should ensure the security of vessels for high wind conditions and greater than normal tidal changes.
Residents should prepare for periodic to sustained loses in electrical power associated with high wind conditions.
As with any major weather event, residents are asked to gather at least the following items in the event of loss of power and access to commercial business.
- Bottled water (one gallon per person, per day) for 3 days
- Canned or packaged food for 3 days
- Blankets / sleeping bags
- Stock a first aid kit
- A non-electric can opener
- Toiletries
- Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members
- Battery operated radio
- Corded telephone
- Extra medicine
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