DEMA WARNS OF POTENTIAL HEAVY RAINS

AS ERNESTO MOVES NORTH

Residents in Flood Prone Areas Advised to Monitor Weather Conditions

As a down-graded Tropical Storm Ernest moves north and west, Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) officials remind residents and businesses to consider safety and preparedness measures in case of heavy rains and possible flooding. The public should also be aware of the potential for isolated tornadoes spawned by tropical storm conditions.

In all cases, the public should continue to monitor media outlets for updates on weather conditions.

The National Weather Service is forecasting rains associated with Ernesto to begin in Delaware mid-morning Friday, Sept. 1. Predictions range from four to six inches throughout the state, with the possibility of heavier precipitation in some areas. This rain follows a wet Wednesday and Thursday which could contribute to conditions for flash flooding if streams and ponds are already high on their banks.

Only minor to moderate tidal flooding is forecast, but conditions should be continually monitored.

Those who live and work in flood-prone areas are encouraged to think about flood safety and to take steps to protect families, homes and businesses. Rains from Ernesto are currently on a track to move west as they move up from the Carolinas, resulting in steady rain the length of the Delmarva Peninsula. Winds are forecast to include gusts of 35 mph inland and 40 to 45 on the coast.

Sustained winds are predicted to be 20 to 25 inland and 30 to 35 on the coast. With ground already soaked with rain from earlier in the week, trees are more susceptible to being up-rooted by winds. Fallen trees can pull down utility lines and cause power outages. Residents should contact their utility provider and not attempt to move downed power lines.

Emergency management officials remind the public that large amounts of rainfall in short periods of time, can lead to flash flooding. Flash floods can strike with little or no warning and can reach full peak in only a few minutes.

If conditions indicate the potential for flash floods, the National Weather Service will issue watches or warnings. A flash flood watch means that flooding may occur. Residents should keep alert and watch rivers and streams. If they rise - don't wait; move to high ground quickly.

A flash flood warning means that there is actual flooding. Residents should act at once and move to high ground.

All residents should develop a household plan that identifies evacuation routes and a place to meet in case family members get separated, and a destination in case evacuation is necessary. Drivers should not attempt to travel down or cross roads that are underwater. Even familiar roads can suffer surface damage with deep pot holes or collapse because of underlying layers being washed away.

Don’t forget, “Turn around and don’t drown.”

Children should never be allowed to play in flooded streets or yards.

The following are flood preparedness tips:

Find out from your local emergency management office whether you live in a flood-prone area. Ask whether your property is above or below the flood stage water level and learn about the history of flooding for your region.
Have check valves installed in building sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains.
Have disaster supplies on hand, including:

Flashlights and extra batteries.
Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries.
First aid kit and manual.
Emergency food and water.
Non-electric can opener.
Essential medicines/prescriptions.
Cash, credit cards and important legal documents (including your flood insurance policy).
Sturdy shoes.

Develop an emergency communication plan. In case family members are separated from one another during floods or flash floods -- a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school -- have a plan for getting back together.
Ask an out-of-town relative or friend to serve as the “family contact.” After a disaster, it is often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address and phone number of the contact person.
Make sure that all family members know how to respond after a flood or flash flood and
teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity and water.
Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1. Listen to your local Emergency Alert System station for emergency information.

Renters and property owners who are not already insured are encouraged to purchase flood insurance policies now to provide financial protection from future storms. Standard homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage. It takes 30 days for a flood insurance policy to be effective.

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