McDonnell Declares State of Emergency Ahead of 'Frankenstorm'

Posted

In anticipation of Hurricane Sandy's arrival early next week, Governor Bob McDonnell has declared a state of emergency in Virginia.

Although there are no definite forecasts, all models point to a  slow moving storm that will cover a large portion of the state.

"We are issuing this state of emergency today as a precautionary measure in order to ensure that we are ready for any potential effects of Hurricane Sandy in the Commonwealth. Due to the track of this storm, and the fact that it will be a hurricane transitioning into a more nor'easter like system, we could see severe weather lasting for 48 hours or more in the state," McDonnell said.

The Commonwealth declares a state of emergency so that state resources can be mobilized and ensure that personnel, equipment and supplies are immediately available.

The Governor warns that heavy precipitation and high winds could ultimately lead to "major tree damage and extensive power outages." He urges that residents to prepare for disruptions to public services.

The weather event, which forecasters have dubbed "Frankenstorm" due to the fact that it could collide with another weather system from the west and a cold front from the north, could pose lingering challenges next week.

"Virginians should make sure their family members, friends and neighbors are prepared for this storm. I encourage all Virginians to gather batteries, blankets, water, canned goods, and other necessities prior to the anticipated onset of storm conditions late Saturday and early Sunday," McDonnell said.

Current forecasts predict this storm could produce steady gale-force winds, heavy rain, flooding and even snow in the western and southwestern parts of the Commonwealth. The entire region will experience colder temperatures in the wake of Sandy.

"Forecasters predict falling temperatures during and behind this system, and in areas that suffer power outages this will lead to new challenges in the days after the storm departs."

McDonnell urges that residents should monitor the media for specific emergency instructions on evacuation orders, routes, and emergency shelters.

The Governor also announced that state agencies have been proactively preparing for Hurricane Sandy through the activation of the Virginia Emergency Response Team, increasing the staffing of Virginia Emergency Operations Center and the placing of Virginia State Police personnel on stand-by.

Furthermore, the Virginia Department of Transportation will maintain crews on 12-hour shifts in Northern Virginia to respond" to any unsafe traveling conditions and damage resulting from Hurricane Sandy."

According to the National Weather Service, Hurricane Sandy will move northward Friday night, and turn toward the northeast on Sunday, before making a turn to the northwest early next week. They predict the storm will have major implications for the Mid-Atlantic or Northeast U.S.

bristow, featured, frankenstorm, mcdonnell, national-weather-service, news, noaa, va