How Northeast Should Prepare for Hurricane Earl
People living from Virginia to Maine need to prepare for what Hurricane Earl will bring late this week, even though the core of the storm will likely be offshore. Our story "Earl to Rattle Atlantic Seaboard" has a map showing expected effects.
AccuWeather.com Facebook Fan Michele H. says "Here on the Western side of the Chesapeake Bay, we're keeping an eye on the updates as they come in. One should already be prepared, but I'm sure there's a few out there who aren't."
Michele is probably right, and there was some discussion this morning on the AccuWeather.com Forums that many people in New York City hadn't even heard the storm was coming until the story hit major newspapers, such as the New York Post, this morning.
Storm surge on Kennebunk Beach in Maine during Hurricane Bill in 2009. Photo by AccuWeather.com Photo Gallery user David R. Jones.
While we do not currently expect heavy rain to reach the I-95 corridor, people living in that area need to be aware of the possibility, as it could spoil pre-Labor Day plans. Although we are only three days away from Earl's closest approach, the forecast could change.
On our Facebook Page, Jennie M. from Norfolk, Va., writes: "The supplies are around year round, never know when you'll need them. Getting some more gas for the generator tomorrow just in case (and if nothing comes I can pour it in the car)."
Farther east, anyone residing on the immediate coast needs to keep a very close eye on the forecast, because there is still time for the situation to worsen. Monitor your local TV or radio station and heed local evacuation notices. Have a Disaster Supply Kit ready.
Coastal residents should prepare for tropical storm-force winds (even if you're not in the wind area on our map) by securing loose objects in their yards. Even winds of 30-40 mph can bring localized power outages, so plan on that possibility.
Stay out of the water for a couple of days before and after the storm, due to the chance of rip currents. Don't get too close to the waves, which can be unpredictable. While Hurricane Bill was far offshore one year ago today, 20 people were swept out to sea by waves at a cliff in Acadia National Park, Maine.
How are you preparing? Join us on Facebook to discuss.
Related to the story:
Earl's Strength to Fluctuate, Category 5 a Long Shot
Earl to Rattle Atlantic Seaboard
Earl on a Path to Batter Outer Banks, Cape Cod
Earl to Threaten Nova Scotia, Newfoundland
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This Day In Weather History
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A tornado crossed Merrimac, Litchfield, Londonderry and North Chester. The same storm produced hailstones that had an 11-inch circumference and weighed 1/2 pound.
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